Planning Commission approves Motor City ICE site plan for 21800 Greenfield

The Oak Park Planning Commission approved a site plan to convert a vacant 30,000-square-foot building at 21800 Greenfield into an ice-manufacturing facility operated by Motor City ICE.

Jim Butler, a representative of PDA Group, told the commission the building is roughly 30,000 square feet and that about 8,000 square feet will be devoted to manufacturing, with the remainder used for storage and office space. Butler said the conversion requires significant mechanical work and equipment; describing the project, he said, "There's a lot that goes into making ice, believe it or not," and added, "It's not just water and freezing." He also described two external cooling towers that will sit on a raised platform and be screened with metal screening to reduce visibility.

Planning staff noted the property is vacant and that owners Brian and Matthew Lucia, who also own Value Wholesale on 8 Mile Road, were present and have been cooperative during processing. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the building size and layout; staff and the applicant provided answers during the presentation. The commission moved, seconded and approved the site plan in a roll-call vote with recorded "yes" votes by Commissioner Teekat, Commissioner Walters Gill, Commissioner Tongate, Commissioner McClellan, Commissioner Eiselman and Commissioner Seligson.

Staff will follow standard site-plan permitting steps, including final mechanical and screening details and any required inspections prior to occupancy.