As the calendar edges closer to the summer spectacle that is the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear, the City of Detroit is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. Following last year’s triumphant return to the downtown streets, the 2024 Detroit Grand Prix promises to be even more exhilarating, with a three-day event running from Friday, May 31 through Sunday, June 2. But with such grandeur comes necessary preparation, and the city is making sure residents and visitors are well-informed and equipped to navigate the impending road closures and transportation modifications.
Road Closures and Transportation Modifications
Starting tomorrow, Tuesday, May 28 at 5 a.m., several streets in downtown Detroit will be closed to facilitate the setup for the Grand Prix. These closures, though temporary, will significantly impact traffic patterns and require careful planning by those traveling in and around the downtown area.
Road Closures Schedule:
- Tuesday, May 28 – Thursday, June 5:
- Atwater from Riopelle to Hart Plaza
- Bates from Jefferson to Atwater
- EB Jefferson from M-10 to Rivard
- WB Jefferson from Rivard to Washington Blvd.
- Woodward from State to Jefferson
- Cadillac Square west of Bates
- Campus Martius
- Wednesday, May 29 – Monday, June 3:
- Renaissance Drive West
- Franklin between Rivard and St. Antoine
- Rivard between Jefferson and Atwater
- Antoine between Jefferson and Atwater
Alternative Transportation Options
To mitigate the inconvenience caused by these closures, the City of Detroit has outlined several alternative transportation options:
- Detroit People Mover: With extended hours during the Grand Prix weekend, this transit system is an optimal choice for getting around downtown. Notably, the Renaissance Center station will drop you directly within the event’s footprint, and the best part? It’s free of charge.
- SMART and DDOT Buses: These services will run on their usual schedules with necessary modifications to accommodate the road closures. Riders should check route adjustments to ensure smooth travel.
- QLINE Park & Ride: For $5, attendees can park at Wayne State lot 12 (6005 Woodward) and take the QLINE into downtown, offering a hassle-free way to reach the event.
- Transit Windsor: This service will operate additional buses over the weekend, starting earlier on Sunday at 6 a.m., ensuring seamless cross-border travel for our Canadian neighbors.
Parking and Ride Share Information
Parking will be a critical component during the event, and the city has issued specific guidelines to streamline the process:
- Parking Restrictions: The Ford Underground Garage will be closed to the public and city employees from May 28 through June 7. Additionally, several downtown parking structures (Millender Garage, Center Garage, Port Atwater Garage, Beaubien Garage, and River East Garage) will not be available for paid public parking during the event.
- Park Detroit App: This app is a handy tool for locating and reserving parking spots around downtown. Pre-purchasing parking can save time and avoid the hassle of finding a spot last minute.
- Ride Share and Bus Drop-Off Locations:
- West Location: Along Fort Street, between Washington and Shelby
- East Location: Riopelle between Jefferson and Woodbridge
These designated areas will ensure efficient and organized drop-offs for Lyft, Uber, buses, and limousines.
Tunnel and Airport Transportation
- Detroit Windsor Tunnel: The tunnel will remain open and accessible from I-375, although it will not be reachable via Jefferson Avenue or M-10. Visit Take the Tunnel for more details.
- Bus Service from Detroit Metro Airport: The Regional Transit Authority has launched a direct bus service from Detroit Metropolitan Airport to downtown. Tickets and information can be found at Detroit Air Express.
This comprehensive plan ensures that despite the temporary disruptions, the spirit and excitement of the Grand Prix will remain accessible to all. The City of Detroit encourages everyone to plan ahead, use available resources, and embrace the thrill of this world-class event. Stay informed by visiting detroitgp.com and downloading the DetroitGP App. Let’s get ready to race!