WATER SQUARE STATION RENOVATION PROJECT

Detroit People Mover Water Square Station Upgrades Begin September 14.

Station will remain open with select access during construction.

ABOUT THE WATER SQUARE STATION RENOVATION PROJECT

The Water Square People Mover Station will be under construction from September 2026 through early March 2027 to deliver its first major upgrade since the Joe Louis Arena era.

Public transportation is never an afterthought. The update and reinvestment of current transit infrastructure of Water Square Station serves the neighboring community while providing aesthetic improvements.

Key Drivers & Timeline

·       Spring 2027 Target: The renovation timeline will coordinate with the opening of the JW Marriott Detroit Water Square Hotel and is scheduled for completion prior to the NCAA Final Four.

·       Community Priorities: The project addresses the age and condition of the facility, identified in the Neighborhood Advisory Committee’s (NAC) Accessibility, Mobility & Traffic Priorities. The construction will satisfy critical NAC-requested updates, including interior beautification and security enhancements.

Necessity for Construction

DTC is working with its contractors to provide safe, modified access to the station. Tenants at both The Residences Water Square and Riverfront Apartments and Condos as well as the public be able to ride at Water Square through the duration of the project.

The closure of selected areas within the station is required to protect the public from active hazards while crews address extensive interior and exterior repairs, including:

  • Structural & Surface Repairs

  • System Overhauls i.e. lighting fixtures, structural support and replacement

  • Safety & Hazard Mitigation

 Notification & Coordination

Phase 1: September 14- December 21

Construction begins with fencing barricades. Station ramps are closed to passengers and pedestrians.

Street-Level Access

·       The station elevator will travel between Street Level and Platform Level only. The elevator continues to provide ADA accessible entry and exit at Water Square Station.

·       North Exit Stairwell will be open between Street Level and Platform Level.

Level 2 Access (Riverfront Apartments and Condominiums Tenants Only)

·       From the Level 2 pedestrian crosswalk into the station, please use the stairwell directly across and proceed upward to the Platform Level.

·       The Platform Level elevator will take you to/from the street and WILL NOT STOP on Level 2.

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