Godwin Mercado

The 36th Street Marketplace- also known as the Godwin Mercado- is a transformative civic investment by the City of Wyoming, breathing new life into the former GM site along the 36th Street corridor. Conceived as a flexible indoor/outdoor pavilion, the marketplace provides space for cultural events, food trucks, farmers' markets, and local vendors throughout the year. It represents economic renewal, community identity, and the continued revitalization of a once-industrial property now repurposed for public benefit. The design pays tribute to the neighborhood’s layered history, where a melody of cultures has shaped its identity over generations. From its humble beginnings as an 1867 one-room schoolhouse to its ongoing industrial and economic revitalization, the Godwin Heights area reflects a longstanding narrative of perseverance, ingenuity, and grit. That legacy is echoed in the marketplace’s architecture and purpose, blending contemporary function with deep respect for its roots.

Fabricated from 50 tons of structural steel, this open and airy pavilion provides a much needed community space. Hot-dip galvanizing was chosen to protect the exposed steel columns, trusses, and roof framing from Michigan’s harsh seasonal elements. The use of galvanizing ensures long-term structural integrity, making it a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution for a highly trafficked public venue. With clean architectural lines and weather-resistant framing, the structure blends modern function with community-focused design. The marketplace stands as a symbol of resilience and reinvestment, and hot-dip galvanizing played a crucial role in making that possible.