Both the state and the railroad industry think an expansion is needed, representatives told the plan commission. The project has been in the planning stages since 1993, and includes Mayor Dennis Archer's office, the Detroit Economic Growth Corp., local automotive companies and the Greater Regional Chamber.
The project would involve expanding the existing yard in Detroit from 500 acres to 1,200 acres. This would require the state to acquire 81 homes and 99 business in the two cities.
A few commissioners expressed concern that residents in the area would be adversely affected. Joseph Carradino, an MDOT consultant, pointed to similar terminals, such as the Corwith terminal in Chicago, where he says property values have increased in the past 15 to 20 years.
It was also noted that the Detroit International Bridge Co. owns a substantial amount of land in the study area, and the company is not in support of the project.
A feasibility study should be completed by December. The commission took the presentation under advisement, and plans to host a public hearing on the matter in November.
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