Detroit City Council Greenlights DCFC Stadium in Southwest Detroit

Big news for Southwest Detroit! The Detroit City Council has officially given its unanimous approval for the Detroit City Football Club’s ambitious plan to construct a new 15,000-seat stadium, alongside a parking deck and affordable housing units. This development marks a significant step forward for the club and the surrounding community, promising revitalization for a key part of the city.

A New Home for Le Rouge: AlumniFi Field Takes Shape

A major milestone has been reached for Detroit City FC and the Southwest Detroit community. On Tuesday, November 26, 2025, the Detroit City Council unanimously approved the club’s comprehensive development plan, clearing the path for the construction of a new 15,000-seat stadium. This exciting development, to be known as AlumniFi Field, is slated for the historic former Southwest Detroit Hospital site at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and 20th Street. This location has long been a key focal point in the area, and its transformation promises a significant revitalization.

Beyond the Pitch: A Holistic Community Development

The project extends far beyond just a soccer venue. The approved plans include not only the impressive 15,000-seat stadium but also a new 421-space parking deck to accommodate visitors and a crucial 76-unit apartment building dedicated to affordable housing. This integrated approach highlights DCFC’s commitment to urban renewal, transforming a long-abandoned property into a dynamic space that serves both sports enthusiasts and local residents. The former Southwest Detroit Hospital, which closed its doors in 1991 and has been vacant for 18 years, is finally set for a new purpose.

Financial Commitments and Lasting Community Benefits

To ensure the successful realization of this ambitious project, the City Council has approved significant development incentives. A key component is a $74.2 million brownfield tax capture, spread over the next 30 years. This critical funding will underwrite the extensive demolition required to clear the old hospital structure, facilitate comprehensive site cleanup, and support the construction of both the new parking deck and the affordable housing units. This investment underscores the city’s dedication to sustainable development.

Equally important are the direct benefits for the community. Detroit City FC has agreed to a substantial $2.27 million in financial contributions and other commitments, which will be disbursed over the next 12 years. These commitments are designed to create tangible local impact, including prioritizing job opportunities at the stadium for residents living in the immediate area. Furthermore, the agreement ensures support for local small businesses, fostering economic growth within the neighborhood, and includes vital improvements to the 20th Street viaduct, enhancing local infrastructure and connectivity.

“The unanimous City Council approval is a major milestone as we move ahead to build a professional venue to serve our club and community,” said Detroit City FC CEO Sean Mann. “As longtime residents of the city and impact area, the leaders and founders of the Club view this project not only as an opportunity to grow our organization and sport, but as a civic endeavor to give back to the city we love. The Community Benefits Ordinance process allowed us to connect with our supporters, city residents and community leaders to ensure that we address the needs of the surrounding neighbors.”

A Transformation for Southwest Detroit

The approved plan will dramatically transform a long-vacant, historically significant site into a vibrant community asset:

A New Era Kicks Off by 2027

The countdown to the grand opening has officially begun. Demolition work on the long-vacant Southwest Detroit Hospital is expected to commence in just a few weeks, marking the physical start of this transformative project. The ambitious timeline aims for AlumniFi Field to be fully operational and ready to host DCFC’s 2027 season, ushering in a new era for the club and its dedicated fanbase, “Le Rouge.”

This move represents a significant evolution for Detroit City FC, which was founded in 2012. After years of building its passionate following and playing at various locations—starting at Cass Tech High School and then moving to Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck in 2016—the club will now have a permanent, purpose-built home right in the heart of Detroit. This stadium is not just a place to play soccer; it’s a testament to the club’s growth and its deep roots within the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the new stadium called?
  The new stadium will be known as AlumniFi Field.
• Where exactly will the new DCFC stadium be built?
  It will be located on the corner of Michigan Avenue and 20th Street in Southwest Detroit, on the site of the former Southwest Detroit Hospital.
• When can fans expect the new stadium to open?
  The goal is for AlumniFi Field to open by the Detroit City FC’s 2027 season.
• What additional developments are included in this project?
  Alongside the 15,000-seat stadium, the project includes a 421-space parking deck and a 76-unit affordable apartment building.
• How will the community benefit from this development?
  DCFC has committed $2.27 million to ensure local residents get priority for stadium jobs, small businesses are supported, and improvements are made to the 20th Street viaduct.

This historic approval marks a new chapter for Detroit City FC and Southwest Detroit, promising not just a premier sports venue but also significant community investment and revitalization for years to come.

Detroit Council Approves DCFC Stadium in Southwest