U-D Jesuit High School Buys Land at Fairgrounds
The school purchased 16 acres along Woodward Avenue, planning a new comprehensive vision for its local properties.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Secondary Education
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University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy has acquired 16 acres of land at the former Michigan State Fairgrounds in Detroit. The purchase includes two noncontiguous parcels along Woodward Avenue near 8 Mile Road, finalized in July and September 2026.
Why it matters
The acquisition represents a significant expansion for the institution as it develops a long-term plan for its existing campus and new properties. The land purchase reflects the school's ongoing investment in the local neighborhood and the students it serves.
The school purchased an 11-acre parcel for $2.5 million on July 1, 2026, and a 5-acre parcel for over $1.5 million in September 2026. These plots are part of the larger 164-acre former fairgrounds site.
The players
University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy
A private secondary school in Detroit that currently operates campuses on Cambridge Avenue and Chippewa Avenue.
Magic Plus
A limited liability corporation that previously held the fairgrounds property.
The details
The land was acquired from the Magic Plus limited liability corporation, a partnership formerly involving Earvin Magic Johnson, Marvin Beatty, and the late Joel Ferguson. Ownership transitioned through the partnership to the Ferguson estate before the final sale to the school. The school currently operates a campus on Cambridge Avenue and the Johnson Recreation Center on Chippewa Avenue, which will be integrated into a new comprehensive development vision.
Timeline
July 1, 2026: The 11-acre parcel on Woodward Avenue sold for $2.5 million.
September 2026: The 5-acre parcel on Woodward Avenue sold for over $1.5 million.
The Home Front
The purchase marks a significant pivot in the ongoing redevelopment of the former 164-acre Michigan State Fairgrounds site. It signals a shift toward private institutional ownership within the larger, long-term master plan for this prominent Detroit property.
Residents near the Woodward Avenue and 8 Mile Road corridor should monitor upcoming public planning meetings for information on future site development. Homeowners in the area may see changes to traffic or neighborhood amenities as the school begins to finalize its vision for the three properties.
The takeaway
This land acquisition secures a substantial footprint for the school's future growth in Detroit. Families should track potential school site master plans for updates on how this expansion might influence local infrastructure or future community use of the properties.
Further reading
Learn more about local school facility developments in the Secondary Education section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Detroit Free Press.
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