Detroit plans $40m multimodal hub

Detroit has announced plans for a new US$40 million multimodal transit hub inside the 30-acre Michigan Central Innovation District. The project will bring together passenger rail, intercity bus, and local transit, connecting the Detroit–Ann Arbor Innovation Corridor, Detroit Metro Airport, and Toronto.

The Michigan Department of Transport (MDOT), Michigan Central, and the City of Detroit have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to begin early design and engineering work on the project. Partners will use a US$10 million Federal Transit Administration RAISE grant awarded to MDOT and US$30 million in state funds. Decisions about final project designs, funding, and timelines will be shared as the exploratory phase progresses.

“Downtown Detroit is open for business and on the move as one of the best places to live, work, and pioneer cutting-edge ideas,” said Michigan’s Governor, Gretchen Whitmer. “Today’s MOU lays the foundation for a new multimodal transit hub that will grow our regional economy, make downtown Detroit more vibrant, and connect residents and visitors to our communities. It builds on a historic investment in transit.”

According to the partners, the proposed hub will expand access, attract investment, and position Detroit as a leader in the region’s transit future. The project supports economic opportunities by strengthening the region’s interconnected innovation ecosystem, including a proposed extension of the Chicago-Detroit Amtrak Wolverine train to Windsor and Toronto.

“As Detroit’s innovation ecosystem grows at an unprecedented rate, our transit infrastructure must evolve alongside it, by linking entrepreneurs and companies to emerging innovation zones and the opportunities they unlock,” said Josh Sirefman, CEO of Michigan Central. “This is just another step in positioning Michigan Central as the hub that not only connects people to possibility but drives regional growth.”

MDOT currently owns and operates the Howard Street bus station, which serves Greyhound, Indian Trails, Baron’s Bus, and the Amtrak station in the New Center neighbourhood. Each of these facilities has passed its useful lifespan and does not offer the amenities and functionality expected by modern travellers. The proposed hub would provide passengers with a more vibrant and accessible location with modern amenities.

“This is a positive step to further develop Michigan Central into a true transit hub and innovation ecosystem,” said Bradley Wieferich, State Transport Director. “We look forward to working with partners Michigan Central, the City of Detroit and others to make this a reality.”

Sam Krassenstein, Chief of Infrastructure for the City of Detroit, said the project would help restore the area’s historic role as the city’s main transport gateway. “For decades, Michigan Central Station was the gateway to Detroit, and we are excited to begin the work of re-establishing train service at a new multi-modal transit facility in the shadow of the station,” he said.

The partners said final project details, including designs and public engagement opportunities, will be developed and shared as planning moves forward.

Image: Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com