Previous public subsidies for Little Caesars Arena top $400 million

As the conversation around the District Detroit tax incentives and financing heats up, we're diving into the Ilitches' Little Caesars Arena, which has already received at least $403 million in public subsidy commitments from the Downtown Development Authority.

Why it matters: With so many residents in need, public funding for downtown developments is often viewed with skepticism — if not outright opposition.

• A new development proposal for the arena district comes with a demand for nearly $800 million in tax incentives.
• The DDA collects tax dollars used to promote downtown's growth.

💰 The previously approved subsidies related to LCA include:

$287 million: Government bonds to fund a portion of the arena's $863 million construction and the Pistons' move to LCA.

$74 million: This payment was triggered in 2018 when the Ilitches' development company, Olympia, met its commitment for $200 million worth of additional development in the arena district.

• The payments are scheduled over time, with over $70 million to be paid after the arena bonds are paid off in 2048.

$34.7 million: A DDA contribution under the original public financing plans.

$7.3 million: The DDA's share of an LCA repair fund, which started at $500,000 a year and escalates 4% annually.

• The $14.6 million cost through 2051 is split with Olympia.