Detroit, Michigan, October 21, 2025
MDOT, the City of Detroit, and Michigan Central have signed an MOU to develop a multimodal transportation hub adjacent to the restored Michigan Central Station within the Michigan Central Innovation District. The project will include passenger rail infrastructure, intercity bus facilities, and connections to local transit services such as DDOT, SMART and the QLine. Funded through a $40 million package combining federal and state funds, the initial phase will focus on research and engineering assessments. The hub aims to centralize regional transit, support urban growth in the district, and improve connectivity for residents and visitors.
Detroit Announces Plans for New Bus and Train Transportation Hub Adjacent to Historic Michigan Central Station
Detroit, Michigan – The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the City of Detroit, and Michigan Central have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop a new multimodal transportation hub adjacent to the historic Michigan Central Station. This initiative aims to enhance regional connectivity, support urban growth, and improve public transit access for residents and visitors alike.
Project Overview
The proposed transportation hub will be located within the 30-acre Michigan Central Innovation District, just southwest of the existing Michigan Central Station. The facility is set to include infrastructure for both passenger rail and intercity bus services, serving as a central point for various modes of transportation. The project is expected to open by December 31, 2028.
Funding and Development Timeline
The development of the transportation hub is supported by a $40 million investment, comprising a $10 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s RAISE program and an additional $30 million in state funds. The initial phase will focus on research and engineering assessments, with decisions regarding final project designs, funding, and timelines to be shared as the exploratory phase progresses.
Transportation Services and Connectivity
The new hub is designed to accommodate various transportation services, including:
- Passenger Rail: The facility aims to reintroduce passenger rail service to the Michigan Central Station campus, with plans to extend Amtrak’s Chicago–Detroit Wolverine line through Windsor, Ontario, to Toronto. This extension is expected to commence by 2029, pending additional funding and infrastructure development.
- Intercity Bus Services: The hub will serve as a central point for intercity bus lines, including Greyhound, Indian Trails, and Baron’s Bus, which will relocate from the aging Howard Street Station to the new facility. This move is intended to centralize Detroit’s transit access in the city’s west downtown area.
- Local Transit Connections: The facility will connect to existing local transit services, such as the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) buses, SMART buses, and the QLine streetcar system, providing seamless connectivity for commuters and travelers.
Impact on Regional Connectivity and Economic Development
The establishment of this transportation hub is expected to:
- Enhance Regional Connectivity: By integrating multiple modes of transportation, the hub will facilitate easier movement between Detroit and neighboring regions, including Canada, thereby strengthening economic and cultural ties.
- Support Urban Growth: The project aligns with Detroit’s ongoing efforts to revitalize and develop the Michigan Central Innovation District, positioning the city as a leader in regional transit and innovation.
- Improve Public Transit Access: The modernized facilities and expanded services aim to provide residents and visitors with more efficient and convenient transit options, contributing to the overall quality of life in the region.
Background Context
The Michigan Central Station, a historic landmark in Detroit, has long been a symbol of the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. After years of disuse, the station has undergone significant restoration efforts, particularly by Ford Motor Company, to transform it into a hub for mobility and technology. The development of the adjacent transportation hub is a continuation of these revitalization efforts, aiming to modernize Detroit’s transit infrastructure and support the city’s growth and innovation initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new transportation hub in Detroit?
The new transportation hub is a multimodal facility located adjacent to the historic Michigan Central Station. It will include infrastructure for passenger rail and intercity bus services, aiming to enhance regional connectivity and support urban growth. The project is expected to open by December 31, 2028.
How is the project funded?
The development of the transportation hub is supported by a $40 million investment, comprising a $10 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s RAISE program and an additional $30 million in state funds.
What transportation services will the hub accommodate?
The hub is designed to accommodate various transportation services, including passenger rail, intercity bus services, and local transit connections such as DDOT buses, SMART buses, and the QLine streetcar system.
When is the transportation hub expected to open?
The transportation hub is expected to open by December 31, 2028.
How will the hub impact regional connectivity and economic development?
The establishment of the transportation hub is expected to enhance regional connectivity by integrating multiple modes of transportation, support urban growth by revitalizing the Michigan Central Innovation District, and improve public transit access for residents and visitors.
Key Features of the New Transportation Hub
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Adjacent to the historic Michigan Central Station within the 30-acre Michigan Central Innovation District. |
| Transportation Services | Passenger rail, intercity bus services, and local transit connections (DDOT, SMART, QLine). |
| Funding | $40 million investment: $10 million federal grant and $30 million state funds. |
| Opening Date | Expected by December 31, 2028. |
| Impact | Enhanced regional connectivity, support for urban growth, and improved public transit access. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.