University of Detroit Mercy Announces Campus Construction, Completes $115M Campaign

The University of Detroit Mercy today announced a campus investment project following the completion of a successful fundraising campaign, which raised $115 million. The project is slated to start this summer and will change the McNichols Campus (at Livernois Avenue).
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Student Union rendering
U-D Mercy is updating its Student Union as part of its construction plans. // Rendering courtesy of University of Detroit Mercy

The University of Detroit Mercy today announced a campus investment project following the completion of a successful fundraising campaign, which raised $115 million. The project is slated to start this summer and will change the McNichols Campus (at Livernois Avenue).

Eliminating 100,000 square feet of building space, the project is expected to improve efficiency and reduce deferred maintenance costs by $43 million. Renovations are the result of the university’s master plan, which focuses on improving student satisfaction with the campus, attracting and retaining students, and using university resources wisely.

“McNichols Campus enhancements will make the university even more attractive to high-achieving students who want a Jesuit- and Mercy-inspired education, as well as an opportunity to apply their learning to community needs in a city as culturally rich and diverse as Detroit,” says Antoine M. Garibaldi, president of the school.

The plan includes a major renovation and addition for the Student Union, which will become the home for all student services. The first phase of construction is expected to be complete by summer 2021.

The front entrance of Shiple Hall, the freshman residence hall, will be reconstructed beginning in the summer, followed by plans to modernize the lobby. Other updates will include bathroom fixtures, paint, flooring, lighting, and furniture.

The 50,000-square-foot Gunnar Birkerts-designed Fisher Administration Center will be demolished due to maintenance issues. Parking and green space will take its place. The building was built in 1966 and was honored by the American Institute of Architects in 2003 for its “architectural design of enduring significance.”

Reno Hall will be demolished due its lack of efficiency and be replaced with student apartments designed for upperclassmen and graduate students.

The university recently purchased vacant land abutting the south end of campus behind Shiple Hall. Plans include an intramural sports field and potential gathering spaces.