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I-375 Reconnecting Communities Project

A rendering of the future of I-375 leading down to the waterfront.
Department of Transportation

I-375 Reconnecting Communities Project

Why is this being done?

Simply because it addresses a need. The existing freeway is old and  doesn't meet current standards for safety and reliability while presenting challenges for those who do not drive. The I-375 service  drives and overpasses are inadequate for people who walk, bike or  have  mobility challenges. Due to its age and condition, I-375 is ready  to be transformed into a vibrant urban boulevard complete with modern amenities to serve all modes of travel.

I-375 Environmental Assessment Study

Project amenities

  • Improved connectivity by increasing the number of street crossings from neighborhoods into downtown, the Riverfront, Greektown, Eastern Market, and entertainment district. 
  • The potential excess land provides more value to the community and creates opportunities for a thriving new district. New bicycle routes, including protected two-way tracks along: 
    • The new 375 boulevard connecting the Riverfront to Gratiot and Montcalm Street.
    • Montcalm Street extending from Brush Street to Gratiot Avenue, connecting to the Dequindre Cut. 
  • A upgraded interchange design will be brought to current standards for getting traffic on and off I-75 safely within 
    the project footprint. 
  • Provides contract and workforce development opportunities for small and local businesses.

Get involved

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Engagement opportunities

As MDOT moves into the next phases of the project, there will be many more opportunities for community input and  participation. MDOT is planning several community meetings throughout the design and building of the project.

Social equity approach

The original construction of I-375 was part of a larger urban renewal project that cleared the red-lined Black Bottom and Paradise Valley neighborhoods. MDOT recognizes this historic environmental justice impact and is committed to working with the community to honor the history of the neighborhoods with a focus on equitable engagement and opportunities through community enhancements.

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise and Small Business Enterprise

MDOT intends to honor the legacy of workforce and business diversity of the former Black Bottom and Paradise Valley neighborhoods’ residents through a robust Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and local workforce development initiatives designed to optimize the use of Detroit-based, minority-owned businesses and workforce in the execution of the pre-construction, construction, and post-construction services. This will include engagement and outreach programs that focus on training, matchmaking, and recruitment of certified DBEs and Small Business Enterprises (SBE).

I-375 DBE/SBE information

Project partners

City of Detroit

The City of Detroit will lead framework planning (including land-use) in coordination with MDOT, while also implementing zoning and other commitments associated with the framework plan.

City of Detroit website

Downtown Detroit Partnership

The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) will work with a team of consultants to provide additional construction mitigation and peer reviews.

 

DDP website

The Kresge Foundation

The Kresge Foundation will conduct roundtables with focus on equity opportunities, including restorative or reparative outcomes.

 

The Kresge Foundation website

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)