The Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is moving forward with the full demolition of the historic Cooley High School building, which has stood since 1928. Superintendent Nikolai Vitti confirmed that the decision comes after years of safety concerns, arson attacks, and community feedback regarding the building’s condition. Although an exact demolition date has not been announced, it is scheduled for this summer.
Located on Detroit’s northwest side, Cooley High School was once a bustling educational institution known for its Mediterranean Revival architectural style. The school closed in 2010 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places the following year. Despite its historical significance, the building has been vacant for years, leading to its current state of disrepair.
Initial plans included preserving a portion of the building for community use, but financial constraints and timeline considerations have led to the decision for a complete demolition. Superintendent Vitti explained that preserving the historic front façade alone would have cost an additional $2 million, making it unfeasible.
Future Plans for the Site
Despite the demolition, DPSCD plans to develop a $25 million sports complex on the site, expected to be completed by 2028. The complex will feature a football field, outdoor track, and green space. Funding for the project includes $15 million from the state and $10 million raised by the DPSCD Foundation.
Community engagement has been a part of the planning process, and while some residents, like former English teacher Ann Boucher, express sadness over the demolition, others look forward to the new opportunities the sports complex will bring. Boucher, who taught at Cooley from 1970 to 1977, recalls the building’s grandeur and wishes it could have been repurposed for residential use.
In recent years, development plans for Cooley have faced challenges. In 2023, the district rejected a proposal from the nonprofit Life Remodeled to transform the site into a community hub. The proposal included a pediatric mental health center, vocational college, and after-school programs, but concerns over property valuation and future use led to its rejection.
Life Remodeled CEO Diallo Smith expressed optimism about the sports complex, highlighting the potential benefits for students and residents. The organization maintains a strong partnership with DPSCD and supports the district’s vision for the site.
Original reporting: BridgeDetroit — read the source article.
