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I-94 Modernization Project - Detroit

I-94 Modernization Project - Detroit

I-94 Modernization Project - Detroit

About the project

The I-94 modernization project will rebuild 7 miles of interstate in segments from just east of Conner Avenue to just east of the I-96 interchange in Detroit.

Project amenities

In addition to bringing this stretch of I-94 up to modern design standards, work includes:

  • Adding a through-lane in each direction,
  • Replacing approximately 60 bridges,
  • Widening freeway shoulders,
  • Improving stormwater drainage,
  • Lengthening entrance and exit ramps and
  • Modernizing the I-94/M-10 (Lodge Freeway) interchange to remove outdated left lane exit and entrance ramps.

To reduce impacts on surrounding neighborhoods, the current design uses the existing street networks instead of building continuous service drives to improve local circulation while building retaining walls to fit expansions into the current freeway footprint.

Explore the project

 

  • A map showing the locations of the advanced bridges as part of the I-94 package one project from Burns Avenue to Barrett Avenue.

    Package 1

    Information regarding drainage tunnel, road, and bridge construction on I-94 between Burns Avenue and Barrett Avenue.

  • At the base of the tunnel, crews wait on the train trolley to take them further inside to do work.

    I-94 drainage tunnel

    Proper drainage of the freeway not only ensures safety and mobility, but it also provides protection for adjacent neighborhoods.

  • An I-94 complete Streets bridge concept rendering.

    Design alternative

    A proposed variation or option in the planning and design of a project, offering a different approach to the project's objectives.

  • An African-American man reads an I-94 newsletter.

    Project newsletters

    Stay informed and up to date on the I-94 modernization project with our newsletters.

  • The I-94 rendering map showing segments 1 and 2.

    Segment map

    A visual map representation dividing the I-94 road, bridge and transportation network into distinct segments for planning purposes.

Engagement opportunities

As MDOT begins Package 1 of the I-94 modernization project, there will be more opportunities for public input through community meetings and the I-94 Neighborhood Advisory Committee.

  • Residents attend a Neighborhood Advisory Committee meeting in Detroit.

    Neighborhood Advisory Committee

  • A diverse group of community members gather around I-94 public meeting boards.

    Community meetings

The Gratiot Avenue bridge construction.

Advanced bridges

Starting in 2013, MDOT committed to replacing overpasses above I-94 ahead of rebuilding the interstate to maintain local community connections.

The advanced bridges were selected based on structural condition at the time and mobility options for neighborhoods. Most of these overpasses were built in the 1950s and have never been rebuilt.

View a complete list of advanced bridges
Sitting together at a computer, small business owners receive information regarding the I-94 Modernization Project Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Training Program.

Small Business Enterprise Training Program

The I-94 modernization project Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Training Program is designed to maximize small business participation in the areas of design and construction, engineering, and inspection (CEI) on the project.

This initiative is part of MDOT's Small Business Program to provide small businesses the opportunity to gain necessary experience to sustain and obtain MDOT service prequalification.

Learn more about the SBE Training Program
An African-American woman speaks to a group about the Detroit at Work program.

Partnering with workforce development organizations

To support growing Detroit's workforce, MDOT is partnering with local organizations to offer training that helps residents build skills for careers related to the I-94 modernization project and similar work in the region.

This initiative is part of MDOT's dedication to identifying career pathways for local residents and providing opportunities for community members to receive training and certifications well before construction begins.

Learn more about workforce development organizations and opportunities
Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision

The I-94 modernization project will reconstruct the I-94 freeway in Detroit from east of the I-96/I-94 interchange to east of Conner Avenue. MDOT received final environmental clearance for the project from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This milestone enables MDOT to proceed with next steps toward rebuilding I-94. Information on the environmental process can be found in the Combined Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (FSEIS) and the Record of Decision (ROD).

Project sponsors are FHWA, MDOT, and the City of Detroit. MDOT has management and oversight responsibility and will oversee all project activities from the preliminary engineering and environmental phases through final construction.

Stay connected

Questions? Contact MDOT-I94Detroit@Michigan.gov or 313-965-6350.

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