The Horace H. Rackham Educational Memorial opened in 1942 and has not received major infrastructure updates since its opening. We propose addressing infrastructure needs throughout the building and a renovation of approximately 70,000 square feet of the total 121,000 gross square feet to create space for Admissions, research activities and outreach currently at the Detroit Center, and programs such as A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning Michigan Architecture Preparatory (ArcPrep), College of Engineering’s Michigan Engineering Zone (MEZ), College of Literature, Science, and the Arts Semester in Detroit, and the School for Environment and Sustainability Clinic.
This proposed long-term investment in university-owned space reaffirms our continued growth in and deep commitment to the City of Detroit and the State of Michigan to grow the economy and improve the quality of life through teaching and research in collaboration with the community. The renovated Rackham Memorial will enable us to broaden educational and career horizons for university students and local K-12 students who will attend programs at this location. This Midtown Detroit location is directly across Farnsworth Street from the Detroit Institute of Arts, is close to other cultural destinations, and is enhanced with the Q-Line for transportation along Woodward Avenue and the adjacent 300 space parking deck at Rackham.
The proposed project will replace the roof, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure, and repair exterior masonry walls. Energy efficiency improvements include adding insulation to exterior walls, architecturally appropriate interior storm windows, energy efficient lighting, and other building improvements. Updated fire detection, alarm, and fire suppression will be installed throughout the building to comply with state requirements for instructional use. The renovated space will include reconfigurable classrooms/multipurpose rooms and maker spaces that support active and engaged learning with total capacity for approximately 500 students.