
On September 24, BizFleets had the privilege of touring one of Detroit’s most iconic landmarks, Michigan Central Station. Our guide, Mark de la Vergne, walked us through the station's remarkable history and its exciting future as a hub for cutting-edge mobility solutions. Once a symbol of the city’s industrial power, the station now stands as a testament to Detroit’s revitalization—a fusion of history and innovation that is breathing new life into the heart of the city.
An Icon Reborn

Michigan Central Station has long embodied Detroit’s resilience. Opened in 1913, it was once the tallest train station in the world and a bustling center of transportation. But as the city’s economy shifted and rail travel waned, the station fell into disrepair and remained abandoned for decades. Now, thanks to Ford’s ambitious redevelopment project, Michigan Central has been restored not just to its former grandeur but as a beacon of the future, centered on mobility and technology.

During the tour, Mark de la Vergne detailed the restoration’s progress, explaining how historical preservation is being seamlessly blended with modern innovation. The station is being reimagined as a space for collaboration, where engineers, designers, and urban planners will come together to shape the next generation of mobility solutions. From autonomous vehicles to smart city technology, the innovations emerging from Michigan Central will have a lasting impact on the city and the broader mobility industry.
BizFleets’ Connection to the Future of Mobility
For BizFleets, the tour was particularly meaningful. Our company’s goal is to connect businesses, universities, and governments with smarter, more efficient fleet management solutions. The developments at Michigan Central align closely with our vision of advancing technology in the fleet industry. As Ford leads the transformation of this historic building into a center for mobility research and development, we see parallels in our own work—bridging traditional fleet operations with forward-thinking, tech-driven approaches.

The station’s transformation reflects a broader shift happening across Detroit, where traditional industries are being revitalized with innovative technologies. This movement is something BizFleets has seen firsthand in our partnerships with various clients. As more companies and institutions seek to integrate cutting-edge technologies into their operations, BizFleets is proud to be part of Detroit’s growing ecosystem of innovation.
A Symbol of Detroit’s Renaissance

The tour offered more than just a glimpse into the future of Michigan Central Station—it was a moment of reflection on Detroit’s broader resurgence. Like the station, Detroit itself is undergoing a renaissance, and BizFleets is proud to play a role in that transformation. As the city continues to evolve, we remain committed to expanding our reach and capabilities, collaborating with innovators and leaders who share our passion for shaping a brighter future.

Our visit to Michigan Central reinforced our commitment to being part of Detroit’s evolving story. The energy of transformation is palpable here, and as we continue to innovate in our own field, we’re eager to see how this historic site will contribute to the city’s continued resurgence. For BizFleets, Michigan Central is more than just a landmark—it’s a symbol of where we’re headed: a future built on innovation, collaboration, and a deep connection to the communities we serve.
Reflections from the BizFleets Team
After the tour, we asked several BizFleets employees to share their thoughts on the experience and what it meant for them, both personally and professionally.
Q: What aspect of the tour stood out to you the most?

Kanen Storr, Senior Account Executive: What stood out to me the most was the station’s incredible full-circle journey. From being the largest train station in 1913, to years of neglect, and now it’s transforming into a hub for innovation. This comeback really highlights the resilience and grit of Detroit, showing how the city continues to adapt and thrive. Oh, and the “Poster Vault” room... That was like the ultimate man-cave for any Detroit sports fan and history buff!
Q: What connection do you see between Michigan Central’s future and BizFleets’ purpose?

Jill Coniglio-Kirk, Chief People Officer: We are connected through our shared commitment to innovation in mobility. Michigan Central is transforming a historic site into a modern mobility hub, while BizFleets is developing and democratizing the next generation of fleet management technologies. We are both harnessing innovation, fostering collaboration, and revitalizing traditional practices for a sustainable future in mobility in Detroit and beyond. I am excited for the future that creates for generations to come.
Q: What impact do you think this project will have on Detroit as a whole?

Sean Stemas, Director of Business Development: It serves as an example of what can happen here and a signal to anyone who is still skeptical of Detroit’s revitalization. There is an excitement and optimism amongst folks in the area that this is just the beginning of great things happening for the city.
Looking Forward: BizFleets and Detroit’s Future
The visit to Michigan Central Station left a lasting impression on our team, igniting both inspiration and a renewed vision for the future. The insights shared by Mark de la Vergne helped us better understand how Detroit’s history is being honored while the city transitions toward a more technologically advanced future. It’s clear that Michigan Central is not just a restoration project—it’s a symbol of Detroit’s ability to innovate while respecting its past.

For BizFleets, this experience solidified our commitment to being part of Detroit’s transformation. As we continue to expand our services and partnerships, we are excited to contribute to the city’s future by helping businesses, governments, and universities manage their fleets more efficiently and sustainably. The transformation of Michigan Central is a powerful reminder that progress often involves looking back for inspiration while forging ahead toward a more connected future.
As Detroit continues its resurgence, BizFleets is proud to be part of the city’s story, working alongside innovators and leaders shaping the future of mobility and technology. The future is unfolding right before our eyes at Michigan Central, and BizFleets is excited to play a role in this new chapter of Detroit’s history.
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