Spring 2027 Target
The schedule coordinates with the opening of the JW Marriott Detroit Water Square Hotel, with completion planned before the NCAA Final Four.
Water Square Station Renovation
Station upgrades scheduled from September 2026 through early March 2027.
Station Improvements
Water Square is receiving its first major station upgrade since the Joe Louis Arena era. Construction runs from September 2026 through early March 2027. Reinvestment in the station supports public transportation for the neighboring community while improving the appearance and condition of the facility.
Key Drivers And Timeline
Community Priorities
The Neighborhood Advisory Committee's (NAC) Accessibility, Mobility & Traffic Priorities identified the station's age and condition. The work includes NAC-requested interior beautification and security enhancements.
Why Construction Is Needed
DTC is working with its contractors to maintain safe, modified station access for the public and residents of The Residences Water Square and Riverfront Apartments and Condominiums. Selected areas must close to protect passengers and pedestrians from active hazards during extensive interior and exterior repairs.
- Structural and surface repairs.
- System overhauls, including lighting fixtures and structural-support repairs and replacement.
- Safety improvements and hazard mitigation.
- Interior improvements, security enhancements, and improved accessibility and movement through the station.
City Of Detroit Improvements
The City of Detroit is a partner in improving access to the Water Square neighborhood. Its published community-benefits commitments include:
- Redesigning West Jefferson Avenue at Rosa Parks Boulevard for safer pedestrian travel.
- Realigning traffic lanes and adding bike lanes on West Jefferson.
- Repairing sidewalks between Riverfront Towers and Steve Yzerman Drive, with widening where space permits.
- Repairing concrete on the West Jefferson–M-10 ramps within the City's jurisdiction.
The City also committed to authorizing DTC to use up to $500,000 in unspent capital funds for station improvements through December 31, 2026. These are published commitments; individual work schedules and completion status are provided by the City.
Access During Construction
Construction began September 14, 2026. The plan keeps the station open with modified access for the public and neighboring residents. Elevator availability and access routes can change during construction. Check current People Mover service notices before traveling.
Published Access Plan: September 14–December 21, 2026
The arrangements below describe the construction plan. Current service notices take precedence.
Construction Area
The plan calls for fencing barricades and temporary ramp closures to protect passengers and pedestrians while work takes place.
Street-Level Access
Planned street access uses the station elevator between Street Level and Platform Level, when in service, and the North Exit Stairwell. Consult current service notices for elevator outages and available accessible routes.
Level 2: Riverfront Tenants Only
The plan reserves Level 2 access for Riverfront Apartments and Condominiums tenants. It directs tenants from the pedestrian crosswalk to the stairwell directly across, leading upward to Platform Level.
The platform elevator travels to and from the street and does not stop on Level 2. Accessible boarding is through the street-level elevator when it is in service.
Project Advisory
At the August 27, 2026 Board meeting, DTC reported that the construction plan was in place with a planned end date of March 6, 2027. The station update continues to describe completion in early March 2027.