The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will begin construction on a new storm sewer outfall at the Detroit riverfront on October 13. The project is intended to improve environmental conditions for residents and businesses near I-375 and the riverfront by allowing cleaner water to be discharged into the Detroit River. This upgrade will also help reduce pressure on Detroit’s combined sewer system during heavy rainfall, lowering the risk of flooding in nearby neighborhoods.
Jason Garza, MDOT Metro Region deputy engineer, stated, "The future of I-375 is still in review but the outfall is a critical infrastructure improvement that fits any alternative selected. In addition to design flexibility, the new system has the potential to serve future developments south of Jefferson Avenue."
The construction will require the closure of Schweizer Place between Woodbridge and Atwater streets until early June 2026. Detours for both vehicles and nonmotorized traffic will be provided. Initially, there will be no impact on the Riverwalk.
However, from November until early April 2026, the Riverwalk at Schweizer Place will be closed. Before this closure, crews plan to restore a section of Atwater Street to allow pedestrian access between Rivard and Beaubien streets and bicycle access between Bates and Riopelle streets. Atwater Street will stay closed to vehicle traffic.
The project is part of MDOT’s ongoing evaluation of I-375’s design in Metro Detroit and aims to support future development in the area.
Alerts Sign-up