The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) is exploring a potential relocation from its downtown office building after routine maintenance work uncovered significant structural problems. Estimated repair costs for the historic Water Board Building range from $30 million to $40 million, leading DWSD Director Gary Brown to evaluate whether investing in the nearly century-old structure is the best path forward.
Director Brown informed the Board of Water Commissioners at a Sept. 16 meeting that the department hopes to make a decision by the end of the year. He stated, “We’re going to have to make a decision on whether or not it is in our best interest to invest $30 (million) to $40 million into a building that no one believes we should be in for the next 20 years.” The department already owns land and has considered building a new headquarters in the past. The Great Lakes Water Authority, which occupies ten floors of the current building, would also be involved in any discussions about its future.
The structural issues came to light during routine tuckpointing and tile replacement work on the upper floors of the 23-story building. Contractors observed bricks shedding as they began their tasks, prompting Director Brown to tell commissioners that “The building literally started to fall apart as they touched it.” Deputy Director Sam Smalley, however, confirmed that no building material has fallen onto the street.
Beyond these recent discoveries, the building has a history of deferred maintenance. A 2018 assessment identified millions of dollars in necessary upkeep, including repairs to its elevators, roof, and ventilation system. Director Brown also noted that the building lacks a fire suppression system.
Adding to the building’s challenges, a streetscaping project on Randolph Street around the start of the year caused damage to the roof of the building’s basement, which extends beneath the street. This damage has resulted in the main entrance being barricaded since the incident. While Deputy Director Smalley did not elaborate on the full extent of the basement damage, Director Brown anticipates these repairs to be completed within the next few months.
In light of ongoing maintenance and inspections, DWSD employees have been working remotely since August 31. Although they were originally scheduled to return to the office on September 21, they remain out of the building as work continues.
The Water Board Building is recognized for its historical significance in Detroit. A report for the Historic Designation Advisory Board described the Louis Kamper-designed structure as “Detroit’s premier example of a commercial building” in a simplified Art Deco style. The building’s damaged penthouse is particularly notable for its terra-cotta tiles and decorative, set-back design, highlighting the blend of architectural heritage and current repair needs facing the department.
