[animatedmartian]

Work begins to replace windows at Michigan Central Depot
Tom Greenwood/ The Detroit News
June 07, 2011
http://www.detnews.com/article/20110...-Central-Depot

Detroit — If it's true that "a journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step," then the Michigan Central Train Depot may be on its way toward restoration.

On Tuesday morning, a crew of workmen from Professional Abatement Services Inc. began removing asbestos-laden caulking and glazing from all the first-floor windows of the iconic building, which has sat abandoned and derelict on Michigan Avenue for decades.

The work backs up a recent pledge by Ambassador Bridge owner Matty Moroun — who also owns the train depot — to replace the roof and more than a thousand broken windows in the 17-story building.

"The activity occurring at Michigan Central Station is the beginning of a long process for depot restoration," said Moroun's wife, Nora. "It is the first of many positive steps to come."

PASI workmen will also be removing asbestos ductwork and tiles from the first floor, according to company President Danny Bennett.

"This is really a huge job, and we could be here for months to come," Bennett said.

"Once we finish the first floor we'll probably start working our way up to the top of this thing. There are an estimated 1,400 windows in this building, with very big windows on the first floor."

[...]

I can't chose between optimism and cynicism knowing that and old rich guy has power over what gets done.