News & Events

Pontiac, Mich. — Crews began aboveground construction on downtown Pontiac’s South Parking Deck by placing the structure’s first precast wall panel with a 300-ton crane. The event marked the beginning of vertical construction on the first of two new parking decks that will support Oakland County’s and its partners’ long-term investment in the city center to help reconnect, revitalize and redevelop the county seat.

Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter joined state, county and local officials, construction partners and labor representatives to celebrate this major milestone.

“This parking deck is more than concrete and steel,” Coulter said. “It is critical infrastructure that will support new investment, bring hundreds of employees and visitors downtown every day and help create a more vibrant, walkable city for generations to come.”

Located at 14 W. Judson St., just east of the 51111 Woodward building, the South Parking Deck will include:

• Seven parking levels
• 610 parking spaces, including 12 electric vehicle charging stations on the first floor
• A 21-capacity bike rack
• More than 203,000 square feet of sustainably designed space
• A rain garden

Completion is anticipated in summer 2027.

Construction of the South Parking Deck follows months of site preparation after demolition of the Phoenix Center cleared the way for redevelopment. With vertical construction now underway, the project moves into one of its most visible phases, as the structure begins to rise above the downtown skyline.

“At Brinker, we believe construction is about building stronger communities,” said Larry Brinker Jr., president and CEO of Brinker. “We are honored to help deliver the parking decks, and we appreciate the opportunity to partner with Oakland County and Endeavour Pontiac Partners on a project that will support downtown Pontiac’s continued revitalization and long-term growth.”

Construction on the North Parking Deck, located at 10 Water St., will begin following continued site preparation. When completed in late 2027, the eight-level structure will provide 689 additional parking spaces, including 14 electric vehicle charging stations and a 34-capacity bike rack, bringing the combined total to 1,299 new parking spaces supporting downtown Pontiac.

“The 16,000 members of Operating Engineers 324 pride ourselves on being vital parts of projects like this,” said Business Manager Douglas W. Stockwell. “The rebuilding of such an important urban center is exactly what we are trained to do, from operating the heavy cranes and equipment needed to the skills and safety we use on every task. Union labor built Pontiac, and union labor will transform it as well.”

Together, the parking structures will accommodate Michigan Department of Health and Human Services employees, others located at the 51111 Woodward building and county employees relocating to the 31 E. Judson building. The two decks will also serve residents, businesses and visitors, as economic activity continues to grow throughout downtown.

“The official start of the South Parking Deck stands as tangible evidence that we are nearing our vision of a thriving downtown filled with new energy and great hope for the future of Pontiac. Let’s go, Pontiac! And let’s go, Oakland County!” said Mayor Mike McGuinness.

The building of both parking decks is backed by a $66.15 million investment approved by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners in 2025.

The parking decks are one component of Oakland County’s broader downtown Pontiac transformation, which also includes the renovation and expansion of the 31 E. Judson St. building, roadway reconstruction to reconnect Saginaw Street, improvements along Orchard Lake Road and the creation of approximately two acres of new public green space.

"Projects like this demonstrate what can be accomplished when public and private partners work together toward a common goal. The leadership of Oakland County, the partnership of the City of Pontiac and the engagement of the community have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life,” said Randy Roth, principal of Endeavour Pontiac Partners. “These parking decks are more than infrastructure – they are an investment in downtown Pontiac’s continued growth, supporting businesses, attracting future development and enhancing the experience for residents and visitors alike.”

Crews continue to make significant progress on the transformation of the 31 E. Judson building, the future home of about 700 Oakland County employees. Laying the foundation for the building addition that will provide large meeting and collaboration spaces for the board of commissioners is underway. Installation of the building’s glass curtain wall is more than 60% complete and is expected to reach 95% completion within the next five weeks. With interior demolition substantially finished, crews will begin interior improvements this month, marking the next major phase of construction.

Work is scheduled for 100% completion by the fourth quarter of 2027, followed by a phased move-in of Oakland County employees as part of the county’s ongoing investment in revitalizing downtown Pontiac.

The board of commissioners also approved $174.5 million in 2025 — to accompany $50 million in support from the State of Michigan secured through Sen. Jeremy Moss and Rep. Brenda Carter — for the renovation of the 31 E. Judson building, demolition of the Phoenix Center and transformation of downtown Pontiac. The initiative represents a long-term commitment to the city’s continued resurgence after decades of disinvestment.

“I’m incredibly proud to have fought hard for Pontiac and see the continued restoration for this project. It is a reminder of the partnership it took to prioritize Pontiac at the state and county levels,” said Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Bloomfield). “Securing a historic $50 million investment towards this project means more than new buildings — revitalizing Pontiac means coming together to bring safe, beautiful spaces to our residents and uplifting our community to truly thrive. I’m excited to see this continue to transform.”

“This is about more than redeveloping an office tower. It is about bringing people, jobs, investment, and new opportunities back to our downtown,” said State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac). “Pontiac is my home, and I am proud to continue fighting to make sure our city is no longer overlooked or left behind.”

In addition to modernizing county operations, the project is expected to generate approximately $80 million in cost avoidance over the next decade by eliminating maintenance costs at outdated facilities while helping attract new private investment and economic development throughout downtown.

“Seeing the start of the South Parking Deck demonstrates how this investment has taken a holistic approach in making downtown Pontiac a place that people want to come to for work and leisure,” said Oakland County Commissioner Angela Powell (D-Pontiac). “Parking can make or break an experience and having these parking decks to serve residents, employees and visitors is going to help make a visit to our city a positive one.”

“We come one step closer to the vision of a revitalized downtown with the construction beginning on this parking deck," said Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chair David T. Woodward (D-Royal Oak). “Easily accessible parking is essential for economic growth, and this structure will support those coming for work, shopping local businesses or enjoying downtown events.”

The Downtown Pontiac Revitalization Project is a collaboration among Oakland County, the City of Pontiac, the State of Michigan, Endeavour Pontiac Partners, Granger Construction, Brinker, union construction partners and nonprofit organizations to restore investment, improve connectivity and create a thriving city center for generations to come. For more information, visit OakGov.com/DowntownPontiac.

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter today joined state, county and local leaders to mark significant milestones in the ongoing transformation of Downtown Pontiac, signaling continued momentum in this once-in-a-generation effort to revitalize, redevelop and reconnect the city’s core.

Standing at the future intersection of Saginaw Street and Orchard Lake Road where downtown streets will soon reconnect – Coulter and project partners highlighted two major developments:

• The placement of a new exterior facade panel on the 31 E. Judson St. building, which will house approximately 700 county employees.
• The start of ground preparation for two new parking decks on the former Phoenix Center site.

“These milestones show Pontiac’s future is being built right here, right now,” said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. “The heart of our county seat is being rebuilt in a way that reconnects streets and restores economic activity, creating a downtown that works for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

Speakers and community leaders signed the facade panel during the event, which was then hoisted into place, symbolizing both tangible progress and a shared commitment to Pontiac’s future. The signatures will not be visible when the building is complete but rather will be part of the building’s historic fabric.

“Oakland County’s redevelopment project is a dynamic catalyst for Pontiac’s forward momentum. I’m grateful for County Executive Coulter’s leadership, for the County Commission’s pro-growth approach and for the strong partnership between both county government and city government,” said Pontiac Mayor Mike McGuinness. “For as long as there’s been an Oakland County, over two centuries, Pontiac has been the county seat. As a city, we’re honored to be Oakland County’s seat of government through our shared past, present and future.”

This next phase of the project builds on the completion of demolition of the Phoenix Center in late 2025, a pivotal step that cleared the way for new development and infrastructure improvements. Since then, work has accelerated on the project.

Construction crews have begun installing the new exterior facade on the Judson building, with exterior site work set to begin in May. Interior improvements and a building addition will follow this summer, keeping the project on track for phased occupancy between September and November 2027.

At the same time, preparation is underway for two new parking structures, on the site of the former Phoenix Center, that will support downtown activity and future growth. Ground preparation for the south deck begins this month, with construction ramping up later this year and completion targeted for mid-2027. Work on the north deck will follow closely behind, with completion expected in late 2027.

“This event represents the first of many milestones ahead, setting the stage for the full transformation and revitalization of Downtown Pontiac,” said Ben Schneider, vice president and Downtown Pontiac project executive for Granger Construction.

In the months ahead, residents and visitors can expect to see continued visible progress, including:

• Expansion of construction activity on the Judson building, including interior renovations and structural additions.
• The start of vertical construction on the south parking deck by Brinker in August 2026.
• Continued site work and preparation for the north parking deck.
• Ongoing road reconstruction and infrastructure improvements to reconnect Saginaw Street and enhance Orchard Lake Road and surrounding corridors.

These improvements are part of a broader effort to restore investment and connectivity in downtown Pontiac, improve walkability and create new public spaces, including two acres of green space that will be conveyed to the city.

This initiative is a collaboration between Oakland County, the City of Pontiac, the State of Michigan and a broad team of partners, including construction manager Granger Construction Co. and union labor organizations such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 58 under the leadership of Business Manager James Soosik.

As construction progresses, community input continues to play a central role in shaping the project to meet local needs around economic development, housing, accessibility and public space.

By bringing hundreds of employees downtown, reconnecting critical infrastructure and creating a more vibrant, walkable environment, the Downtown Pontiac transformation is positioning the city for long-term growth and renewed opportunity.

“For too long Pontiac has been overlooked, and this project is the result of real partnerships to make a change,” said Oakland County Commissioner Angela Powell (D-Pontiac). “With a new and modernized downtown, the city is looking forward to showing what residents have always known – Pontiac is the heart of Oakland County.”

Backed by a $174.5 million investment budgeted and approved by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners in 2025 – including $50 million in support from the State of Michigan thanks to Sen. Jeremy Moss and Rep. Brenda Carter – the project represents a long-term commitment to Pontiac’s resurgence after decades of disinvestment.

In addition to modernizing county operations, the project is expected to generate approximately $80 million in cost avoidance over the next decade by eliminating maintenance costs at outdated facilities. It is also driving economic momentum, with increased private development interest and new projects emerging throughout downtown.

“This project proves downtown Pontiac’s transformation is real,” said Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chair David T. Woodward (D-Royal Oak). “It is so much more than just new office space; it is the creation of good-paying jobs, investment and new public spaces where people can connect.”

PONTIAC, MI (October 16, 2025) — The City of Pontiac is proud to announce the successful sale of its 2025 Capital Improvement Bonds, generating $20 million in proceeds to support the acquisition, construction, and improvement of a new state-of-the-art recreation center within the City.

“We’re very pleased that our city’s financial responsibility in recent years has enabled Pontiac to earn its highest ever bond rating of AA-, thereby saving taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest on this bond issuance,” said Mayor Tim Greimel.

The successful bond sale is a significant boost for Pontiac as it prepares to lay down the blueprint and ignite the next step towards developing its highly anticipated recreation center, which includes:

• Comprehensive system installations

• Site enhancements

• Structural modifications

All of which will serve residents for decades to come.

In preparation for the bond sale, the City and its municipal advisor, Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated, requested a credit rating from S&P Global Ratings. S&P assigned the bonds an “AA–” rating, citing the City’s strong general fund performance, robust reserves, and modest debt burden with low carrying costs. To further enhance security, the bonds were insured by Build America Mutual, which maintains an “AA” rating.

The bonds were sold through a professional financing team that included Stifel as the underwriter, Baird as the municipal advisor, and Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone, P.L.C. as bond counsel. The bonds achieved an actual interest cost of 4.05% and will mature in 2045, representing a repayment term of approximately 20 years.

This transaction marks the first time in nearly two decades that the City has accessed the capital markets. Pontiac’s new “AA–” rating and sound fiscal management practices attracted strong investor demand, with participation from many of the nation’s most respected institutional investors, including bond funds, money managers, and bank and trust departments. When the bonds were offered for sale, investor demand was exceptionally strong, with orders totaling nearly four times the available amount. This high level of interest allowed the City to secure more favorable borrowing terms and reduce overall costs over the life of the bonds.

“This successful bond sale is a testament to Pontiac’s strengthened financial foundation and investor confidence in our City,” said contracted Finance Director, Daniel Clark, CPA (Principal at Rehmann). “We are proud to invest in critical community infrastructure while demonstrating prudent financial stewardship.”

PONTIAC, MI (October 9, 2025)— Progress is underway as the City of Pontiac officially broke ground on its highly anticipated recreation center on October 8 at 191 N. Glenwood Ave., Pontiac. Elected officials, contractors, and city staff highlighted their collective efforts and steps forward toward the structural transformation of the former McCarroll School. The development is set to create additional recreational opportunities for Pontiac youth and is expected to be completed by Spring 2027.

The versatile facility will be situated directly across from the Roberto Duran Rodriguez Skatepark, which opened in 2024. The recreation center will serve as an excellent home for Pontiac youth recreation programs, providing a safe space for them to gather after school throughout the year. It will also be a fantastic facility for events such as receptions, birthday parties, and a variety of gatherings for up to 100 people.

“This groundbreaking is the culmination of years of effort, from acquiring the land to assembling the financing and from design and engineering to hiring a construction manager,” said Mayor Tim Greimel. “Most importantly, this marks a huge investment in Pontiac’s most valuable asset - its residents. This project will result in a state-of-the-art community center for recreation and enrichment programming for residents of all ages, especially our youth.”

The city contracted Clark-White Construction Company for the construction, while RACER and MRSA have led the design. Pontiac City Council approved funding for $37,033,018, which came in slightly under budget and includes all preferred options of the original design plan. The final facility will be 54,000 square feet, featuring high-quality amenities such as:

• Basketball courts

• Fitness center

• Indoor walking/running track

• Showers/locker rooms

• Early childhood learning area

• Full commercial kitchen

• Multipurpose rooms

• Teen area and game room

• Manicured outdoor space

• Office space and more!

Additionally, the building will serve as a resiliency hub for the community. This means that in times of emergency, the community will know where to go for assistance.

“The groundbreaking of our new recreation center for the City of Pontiac marks the beginning of a new chapter for the community—where health, activity, and togetherness come to life,” said Pontiac Parks and Recreation Director Tarrance Price. “Today, we celebrate progress, unity, and the bright future ahead.”

The state-of-the-art facility will be the cornerstone of the Pontiac community, where motivation meets innovation. Residents have long awaited this neighborhood hub— a welcoming space where families can play, learn, and grow for years to come.

“The New Pontiac Youth Recreational Center is a transformative investment in the heart of District 6, one that will uplift our youth, strengthen community bonds, and create lasting opportunities for growth and development,” said Pontiac City Council President Pro Tem William Carrington. “This initiative reflects the vision and commitment of our city leadership, who made bold, strategic decisions to prioritize the well-being of our residents and the future of our young people. By providing a safe, inclusive space for recreation, learning, and mentorship, the center will serve as a cornerstone for community cohesion and youth empowerment. We are proud to see this project come to life and grateful for the leadership that made it possible.”

Anyone looking to view more visuals can take a virtual walk through the building here.

PONTIAC, MI (October 3, 2025)— The City of Pontiac is proud to announce that it has received the bond rating of AA- from S&P Global Ratings, after being without a credit rating for over a decade.

The last time the City of Pontiac held a bond rating was in 2011, which was a rating of CCC, or “junk” status. Furthermore, this is the highest rating the city has ever achieved in its history. This rating marks a turning point in the city’s financial trajectory, positioning it firmly for future growth.

This prestigious rating reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial position, responsible fiscal management, and investor confidence in its long-term economic stability. The AA- bond rating signifies the city’s strong creditworthiness, indicating a low credit risk for investors. This enables access to lower interest rates for public borrowing, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars.

“This is a proud moment for the City of Pontiac,” said Mayor Tim Greimel. “After years of diligent budgeting, strategic planning, and making tough but necessary decisions, we’ve proven that our city is on solid financial footing. This rating reflects our long-term commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth.”

The rating is based on the city’s continued improvements in financial operations since it was under emergency management over a decade ago, including balanced budgets, a minimal debt burden, growing reserves, and an expanding property and income tax revenue base.

The city also strategically partnered with Rehmann in November 2024 to help finalize the 2024 audit, catch up on accounting tasks, prepare and finalize the 2025 budget by the new charter date of May 31, and lead and reorganize the Finance Department to better meet the city’s needs. Those efforts were part of a broader strategy to restore fiscal health and provide a strong foundation for future investments in infrastructure, public safety, and economic development.

“This is more than just a number, it’s a signal to residents, businesses, and investors that the City of Pontiac is a stable and smart place to invest in,” said contracted Finance Director, Daniel Clark, CPA (Principal at Rehmann). “It helps us stretch every dollar further and fund critical projects that improve quality of life.”

Rehmann is a professional advisory firm that provides accounting, business solutions, outsourcing, specialized consulting, and wealth management services. For over 80 years, Rehmann has provided forward-thinking solutions to their clients. They help look to the future with confidence, thanks to their equipped expertise and integrity. Through their partnerships with clients and communities, Rehmann produces impactful solutions that empower various companies and organizations, such as the City of Pontiac.