Detroit, October 16, 2025
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the restart of Amtrak service near Michigan Central Station in Detroit. This initiative is designed to enhance regional connectivity and bolster economic growth in the revitalized area, with operations set to commence soon. The return of train services aims to make commuting more accessible and support local businesses and residents in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Detroit
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that Amtrak service will restart near Michigan Central Station in Detroit. The initiative aims to enhance regional connectivity and support economic growth in the revitalized area, with operations expected to begin soon.
Details of the Initiative
The plan involves establishing a new multimodal transportation hub near the historic Michigan Central Station. This facility will accommodate both Amtrak passenger trains and intercity bus services, providing a modern and accessible location for travelers. The project is set to replace the existing Howard Street bus station, which currently serves Greyhound, Indian Trails, and Baron’s Bus, as well as the city’s Amtrak station located in the New Center area. Both existing stations have been deemed outdated and lacking the amenities expected by today’s travelers.
To support this development, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has secured a $10 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s RAISE program, supplemented by an additional $30 million in state funding. These funds will be utilized for initial research and engineering efforts, marking the commencement of the project.
Background on Michigan Central Station
Michigan Central Station, an iconic Beaux-Arts structure, has long been a symbol of Detroit’s history. Opened in 1914, it ceased operations in 1988. After years of neglect, Ford Motor Co. purchased the station in 2018 and invested nearly $900 million in its renovation. The station reopened to the public on June 6, 2024, and now serves as a hub for mobility innovation, housing offices for numerous companies and hosting various cultural events. The proposed transportation hub aims to further integrate the station into Detroit’s evolving transit landscape, enhancing connectivity and supporting the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
Future Prospects
The establishment of this new transit facility is expected to significantly improve transportation options in the region, facilitating easier travel between Detroit, Ann Arbor, and beyond. By modernizing the city’s transit infrastructure, the initiative seeks to attract more visitors and businesses, contributing to Detroit’s economic growth and reinforcing its position as a leader in mobility innovation.
FAQ
What is the new transportation hub near Michigan Central Station?
The new transportation hub is a proposed facility that will accommodate both Amtrak passenger trains and intercity bus services, replacing the existing Howard Street bus station and the city’s Amtrak station in the New Center area.
How is the project being funded?
The project is funded through a $10 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s RAISE program, along with an additional $30 million in state funding, totaling $40 million for initial research and engineering efforts.
When is the new transit facility expected to open?
The project is in its early stages, with decisions about final designs, funding, and timelines to be shared in the future. Specific opening dates have not been announced yet.
What is the significance of Michigan Central Station?
Michigan Central Station is a historic Beaux-Arts structure that opened in 1914 and ceased operations in 1988. After years of neglect, it was purchased by Ford Motor Co. in 2018 and reopened to the public on June 6, 2024, serving as a hub for mobility innovation and cultural events.
How will the new transportation hub impact Detroit?
The new transportation hub is expected to enhance regional connectivity, support economic growth, and attract more visitors and businesses to Detroit, contributing to the city’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
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Key Features of the New Transportation Hub
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Near the historic Michigan Central Station in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood. |
| Services | Accommodates both Amtrak passenger trains and intercity bus services. |
| Funding | $40 million, comprising a $10 million federal grant and $30 million in state funding. |
| Purpose | Enhance regional connectivity and support economic growth in the revitalized area. |
| Timeline | Project is in early stages; specific opening dates have not been announced yet. |
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Author: Construction MI News
MICHIGAN STAFF WRITER The MICHIGAN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionminews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Michigan 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 the Michigan Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan and the Home Builders Association of Michigan, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Miller Canfield LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
