Phoenix-based U-Haul International Inc. is converting an abandoned manufacturing plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, into a self-storage facility. U-Haul Moving & Storage of Forest Glade at 9082 Tecumseh Road E. currently offers truck and trailer rentals, and moving and packing supplies. Renovations are underway on the 128,240-square-foot building to add about 1,000 interior and drive-up storage units. A U-Box portable-storage warehouse and containers will also be added.
The 11-acre property has been empty for 20 years following the closure of the Windsor Bumper Manufacturing Plant. The city assumed ownership of the site in 2009 and sought a developer to help clean up and redevelop it, according to the city’s website. A 2014 fire caused further damage. The city is using grant money to aid U-Haul in the cleanup efforts, the source reported. The property is on an arterial road surrounded by a mix of commercial, residential and industrial properties.
“This investment is great news for the city. The cleanup and visual improvements to the site is welcomed news to this area of the city,” said Mayor Drew Dilkens.
“This has been an eyesore for years, but when we are finished, it will be amazing,” added David Anstett, president of U-Haul Co. of Western Ontario. “We are rebuilding a spot where so many people worked in the past, and I am proud of this growing tie with the community.”
Established in 1945, U-Haul International has more than 40 million square feet of storage space at more than 1,000 owned and managed facilities throughout North America.
Sources:
- City of Windsor: Wickes Site - Environmental Site Assessment
- Windsorite: U-Haul Giving Facelift to Abandoned Wickes Plant
