Thompson Block in Ypsilanti

Completed in 1861 by builder Mark Norris, the three-story Italianate Thompson Block building in Ypsilanti was situated across from the busy railroad depot. As one of the most significant buildings in “Depot Town,” the Thompson Block was reportedly used as a station for the Underground Railroad and served as an infantry barracks for two regiments during the Civil War.

Over the decades, the storefronts sold paint, bicycles, farm implements and automobiles, among other products. Years later, the building gradually fell into disrepair, and it was completely vacant when a devastating fire roared through most of the structure in 2009. With collapsed floors and roof, the remaining brick walls were unstable and dangerous, and a demolition was planned.

Rising from the Ashes

A development team, led by Original and Only Thompson Block LLC, signed on in 2017 to rehabilitate this neighborhood landmark. Stabilizing the masonry walls was a substantial challenge, and the entire structure had to be repointed, with selective reconstruction to match the pre-fire profile of the building using historical photographs.

The $13 million rehabilitation project employed both Federal and State Historic Preservation Tax Credits and a pre-development loan from the Michigan Historic Preservation Network. The project also received a $3.2 million award from the Michigan Community Revitalization Program through approval from the Michigan Strategic Fund Board in December 2017. The County of Washtenaw Brownfield Redevelopment Authority was also awarded an Act 381 Work Plan with a value of over $1.2 million to assist with the project’s brownfield eligible activities, overcoming a key hurdle. 

“When 3mission became involved, we immediately went to work, but the capital stack required to save a project of this scale and complexity was incredibly challenging,” said Jon Carlson of 3mission Design and Development. “We received strong local support, yet there was still little hope the project could move forward. Without the MEDC grant and loan participation, this project simply would not have started – and certainly would not have been completed.”

Back to the Block

Thanks to the support of the MEDC and local partners, the Thompson Block reopened in 2021. Upper floors returned to their original use as dwellings, with 20 loft-style apartments, with the Thompson & Co. restaurant occupying the ground floor. What was once seen as a dangerous eyesore is now a new destination, further reinvigorating the Ypsilanti Depot Town neighborhood.

“We have worked hard to create a true sense of community for residents, including offering neighborhood discounts at the restaurant for tenants and nearby residents,” said Carlson. “At times, the project supports more than 80 employees, and we remain deeply engaged in the local community. Beyond employment, we regularly host and participate in events that help create activity, placemaking and positive energy throughout the neighborhood.”

In 2022, the Thompson Block building was recognized by the State Historic Preservation Office as one of the awardees for the Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation, which recognize standout projects across the state, exemplifying the collaboration and deep impact preservation can have in Michigan communities.

“Receiving that recognition was a tremendous honor because it reflects the core mission and spirit of our company,” said Carlson. “We are passionate about finding and saving historic structures from another era – buildings that often carry deep cultural and community significance. Unfortunately, many of these properties have sat vacant or neglected for so long that they become increasingly difficult to save. The Thompson Block is a perfect example. Even with our experience and commitment, there was virtually no chance this structure could have been preserved without significant support and an enormous collective effort. Every dollar went back into restoring the building and preserving its historic details, and we believe the result reflects that dedication.”

Welcome to Depot Town

Carlson says the Thompson Block project has helped catalyze positive momentum throughout the area, from increasing property values and pedestrian traffic to inspiring other nearby housing developments. Across the street, the historic train depot is under contract for redevelopment.

“We have voluntarily assisted that team with early predevelopment planning and introduced them to the MEDC and local officials because we are committed to helping see the entire neighborhood continue to improve,” Carlson said.

The activity and investment around this corner of Depot Town has changed Ypsilanti for the better – thanks in large part to the Thompson Block project.

“The atmosphere has completely changed,” Carlson said. “The energy is positive, vibrant and welcoming. In its own way, the transformation has been truly meaningful for the neighborhood and community. Our goal has been to create a vibrant gathering place that reflects the diversity, culture and energy of Ypsilanti. We are incredibly proud to be part of the community and to contribute to the continued story of this historic landmark. We, along with our staff of more than 80 hospitality employees, the surrounding neighborhood, and the entire community, are deeply grateful for MEDC’s partnership and belief in the project.”

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