Mammoth Building Demolition Signals a New Chapter for Detroit’s Northwest Side

For decades, the Mammoth Building on Detroit’s northwest side has been an unshakable reminder of what once was. Once alive with commerce and community, it now stands as a towering symbol of decay. After sitting vacant for nearly 25 years, its fate is sealed: the Mammoth Building will soon meet the wrecking ball. Last week, Wayne County Circuit Judge Leslie Kim Smith approved its demolition, finally allowing the city to begin clearing the way for progress. This three-story, 135,000-square-foot structure at the corner of West Grand River Avenue has been on Mayor Mike Duggan’s radar for years. It’s no surprise—buildings like this aren’t just eyesores. They’re a physical representation of the disinvestment and neglect Detroit has battled for decades. For those who live nearby, the Mammoth Building isn’t just “blight.” It’s been a hazard, a target for illegal activity, and a source of frustration. The court’s order affirms what many in the community already knew: this structure cannot be saved. The Mammoth Building’s history goes back to 1949 when it opened as the Federal Department Store. In its prime, it was a hub for families, offering everything from clothing to housewares. Over the years, the building transitioned to house the...