DEGC selects developers for retail hub and restaurants in Southwest Detroit

• 6.1-acre commercial development opportunity on West Vernor Highway in Southwest Detroit

• Environmental remediation for the site is underway

• Location offers strategic access to I-75, I-94 and Detroit Intermodal Freight Terminal

• Site situated just two miles from Michigan Central Station and Gordie Howe International Bridge

  
  

October 8, 2025 (DETROIT) — The Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) announced today the approval of a proposal from Queen Lillian Development and Tekton Development and retail development firm Lormax Stern to redevelop 6370 West Vernor Highway into a retail destination serving Southwest Detroit.

The team plans to develop 35,000 to 40,000 square feet of retail space on the 6.1-acre site, including a traditional retail strip center and three outparcel locations that could accommodate local and national tenants, restaurants and a grocery store.

“Here you have two Detroit-based developers who know this community inside and out, paired with a retail firm that has the national connections to bring in the tenants residents want,” said David Laurence Howell, vice president of Real Estate Services at DEGC. “Southwest Detroit has serious momentum right now. This project keeps that going.”

Howell adds that final acceptance is subject to Detroit City Council approval of a development agreement governing the sale and development of the site.

The development team pairs Chris Jackson of Queen Lillian Development and Jason Jones of Tekton Development — both Detroit-based firms — with Lormax Stern, a retail developer with a national reputation for executing successful shopping centers. Lormax will also partner with Sixteen42 Ventures to identify retail tenants for the development site.

“We are honored to be selected to lead the redevelopment of 6370 West Vernor, a catalytic site in the heart of Southwest Detroit. Our vision is to create a vibrant, walkable retail destination anchored by a significant national tenant and complemented by a mix of local-serving businesses that reflect the unique character and culture of Southwest Detroit,” said Chris Jackson, managing partner of Queen Lillian Development. “We look forward to bringing national and local retail options to an already pulsating neighborhood and to transforming this long-vacant 6½-acre site into a thriving commercial hub that serves both residents and visitors.”

The site’s strategic location near major transportation routes — including I-75, I-94 and the Detroit Intermodal Freight Terminal — combined with its proximity to dense residential populations makes it ideal for retail development. The property sits just two miles from both Michigan Central Station and the Gordie Howe International Bridge.

The City-owned parcel, once a Department of Public Works maintenance facility, has been cleared and is undergoing environmental remediation by the City of Detroit.

“As a Detroit resident and business owner, I am proud to partner with Queen Lillian Development and Lormax Stern on this transformative project. The Vernor site gives us a unique opportunity to bring quality national retailers alongside local entrepreneurs, creating jobs, partnerships and amenities that reflect the pride and culture of Southwest Detroit,” said Jason Jones, principal of Tekton Development. “Our team is committed to ensuring this development strengthens the neighborhood and sets a standard for equitable, community-centered growth across the city.”

The development is expected to break ground in fall 2026, with completion targeted for spring 2028. The project will pursue brownfield tax increment financing and other incentives to support the redevelopment of the formerly industrial site.

About Detroit Economic Growth Corporation

Detroit Economic Growth Corporation is a non-profit organization that serves as Detroit’s lead implementing agency for business retention, attraction and economic development. DEGC is led by a board comprised of business, civic and community leaders. Its staff provides services for key public authorities that facilitate incentives and other forms of financing for projects that bring new jobs and investment to the City. DEGC also manages important initiatives to support small businesses and grow neighborhood commercial corridors. DEGC is dedicated to inclusive development and access to economic opportunity.