Detroit’s Coolidge Terminal Redevelopment Nears Completion

News Summary

Detroit is progressing efficiently on the $160 million Coolidge Terminal redevelopment project, which is two-thirds complete and set to finish by 2026. The project aims to modernize the city’s public transportation infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and create a sustainable work environment. Key features include enhanced office spaces, extensive bus storage, and advanced maintenance facilities, all emphasizing environmental sustainability. Funding involves contributions from the Federal Transit Administration, the city, and the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Detroit is making significant strides in the redevelopment of the Coolidge Terminal, a project valued at $160 million, aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and efficiency of public transportation in the city. Currently, the project, which is situated on Schaefer Highway just north of I-96, is reported to be two-thirds complete and is expected to be finalized by December 31, 2026.

The Coolidge Terminal project is a response to the original terminal that was severely damaged by a fire in 2011. It involves a complete reconstruction to meet modern standards of operation and efficiency. Funding for the project has been secured from multiple sources, with the Federal Transit Administration contributing $102.5 million, the city providing $31.5 million in funds, and an additional $25.6 million from the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Details of the Complex

The new terminal complex will feature three main structures designed to facilitate improved operations for the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and create a more modern working environment for employees.

• The operations building will span 16,922 square feet and will include:
  • Office spaces
  • Radio dispatch area
  • Locker rooms and a workout area for drivers
  • A break room for drivers
• The bus storage and coach services building will cover an impressive 121,192 square feet, with capacity for:
  • 148 buses parked nose-to-nose
  • Future capacity to expand to accommodate 250 buses.
• The fleet maintenance building will measure 54,293 square feet and include:
  • Bays for light inspections
  • Bays for oil changes
  • Areas designated for heavy repairs.

Sustainability Efforts

Environmental sustainability is a priority for this project. Approximately 35,000 tons of existing concrete have been recycled and repurposed as structural backfill material. Additionally, the terminal will incorporate advanced energy-efficient systems, including LED lighting equipped with occupancy sensors and high-performance insulated wall panels. Furthermore, infrastructure upgrades will address stormwater and drainage management issues.

Impact on the Workforce and Operations

The Coolidge Terminal aims to modernize the work environment and enhance service efficiency for DDOT, with ambitious goals to increase the number of bus drivers to approximately 600 by the fiscal year 2025. As part of this redevelopment, the existing DDOT facilities—the Shoemaker Terminal and Gilbert Terminal—will undergo changes, with the Gilbert Terminal expected to be decommissioned after the new Coolidge project is completed.

According to city officials, the significance of the Coolidge Terminal project extends beyond just infrastructure; it is viewed as a substantial investment in the future of public transportation in Detroit, aimed at ultimately improving services for residents and providing a better workplace for those employed within the system.

This redevelopment is poised to play a critical role in enhancing the efficiency of public transportation in Detroit, setting a new standard for future projects aimed at benefiting both the transit system and its users.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Detroit’s Transit Developments Amid Financial Challenges

Additional Resources

• Detroit Free Press: DDOT’s Coolidge Replacement Project
• Google Search: Detroit Coolidge Terminal
• Mass Transit: Significant Progress at Coolidge Terminal
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Detroit Public Transportation
• Axios: Detroit’s New $160 Million Bus Terminal
• Google News: Detroit Bus Terminal Updates