Prime Development, based in Grand Rapids, MI, built theapartments for the university and will manage the property. Acompany official could not be reached, but a university spokeswomansays more than 40% of the apartment building is occupied. Rentsrange from $870 to $1,395 per month for 646 sf to 1,008 sf,according to Prime's Web site. The project also includes a 950-carparking deck.

"The property has completely transformed a vacant property intoa vibrant retail and housing environment," says the spokeswoman."It really contributes to the whole lifestyle revitalization of theMidtown area in Downtown Detroit."

Loft developments, both condo and apartment, started in earnestabout 10 years ago to try to revitalize infill properties or unusedsites. Though it hasn't caught on as hoped, the Midtown area aroundWSU has been one of the city's success stories. "There's been aconcentrated effort by staff, faculty and students to live oncampus," the spokeswoman says of the largely commuter school. "Andthe university has been very much the catalyst for urbandevelopment."