Michigan’s Livernois Intermodal Facility to see eco-friendly upgrades and improved efficiency with new federal funding of Detroit Rail Project.

Federal Support Drives Major Detroit Infrastructure Project

DETROIT—The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), along with the City of Detroit and Norfolk Southern Corporation, has secured $67 million in federal funding to enhance Detroit’s Livernois Intermodal Facility, a major transit hub for rail and truck freight. The investment, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) under the Federal Railroad Administration’s CRISI program, will be matched by local and corporate contributions for a total project budget of $112 million.

These upgrades, critical to improving the supply chain’s efficiency across the Midwest, focus on environmental and operational advancements. Planned improvements include replacing diesel cranes with hybrid and electric models, expanding the rail track by 17,200 feet, and modernizing yard infrastructure to reduce emissions and increase freight capacity.

Local Communities to Breathe Easier with Reduced Emissions

On top of Michigan Central Station, Detroit, 2005

The project, coined Detroit RECHARGED (Realizing Environmental Changes Happening Around Railroads Generating Equitable Development), aims to address long-standing pollution issues in Detroit’s Southwest neighborhoods, where diesel emissions and heavy truck traffic have negatively impacted air quality and contributed to dust and noise concerns. Southwest Detroit is currently battling some of the worst air pollution in the country.

Mayor Mike Duggan expressed gratitude for the federal support, stating, “This funding will improve residents’ quality of life by reducing emissions and dust while upgrading the facility’s appearance.” In addition to air quality improvements, rerouting truck traffic is expected to reduce congestion and lower pollutants that have plagued nearby neighborhoods.

Critical Upgrades Target Detroit’s Supply Chain Hub

The Livernois Intermodal Facility is a central point in Detroit’s supply chain, moving containers between road and rail networks to support key industries. The new funds will significantly boost the hub’s capabilities, with the potential to more than double container lifts. This upgrade is expected to attract more logistics and manufacturing partners, generating economic activity and job growth.

Norfolk Southern President and CEO Mark George highlighted the broader economic impact, noting that the enhancements align with the company’s vision to create a “Terminal of the Future.” The project not only bolsters local and regional transportation networks but also positions Detroit as a leader in sustainable logistics technology.

Funding Supports Statewide Infrastructure Projects

The Livernois Facility is one of several Michigan infrastructure projects benefiting from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Other grants include $8.4 million for Amtrak enhancements along Michigan’s Wolverine and Blue Water lines, $16.4 million for Marquette Rail upgrades in Ludington, and $27.1 million for Lake State Railway improvements. Additionally, Michigan State University received funds to develop AI-based solutions to improve rural rail crossing safety.

These projects underscore Michigan’s ongoing push to secure federal dollars to revitalize infrastructure, especially in environmentally vulnerable areas. Zachary Kolodin, Michigan’s chief infrastructure officer, emphasized the state’s role as a leader in sustainable infrastructure, asserting that Michigan continues to prove to federal partners its readiness for investment and innovation.

Detroit Rail Project Makes Michigan a Leader in Sustainable Transportation

As Michigan gears up for transformative infrastructure projects, the state remains focused on sustainable economic growth. Programs like Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s “Make it in Michigan” initiative, together with recent federal funding, aim to bring supply chains closer to home and create high-paying jobs across the state.

This latest wave of infrastructure support is not only a boon to Michigan’s transportation sector but also a step toward environmental justice and economic vitality in Detroit and beyond.

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