News Summary
The Detroit City Football Club (DCFC) has revealed plans for AlumniFi Field, a $150 million stadium in Corktown, slated for completion by spring 2027. The project includes a 15,000-seat stadium, retail space, affordable housing, and aims to serve the community beyond soccer. Demolition of the Southwest Detroit Hospital, the current site, will begin this fall. DCFC’s CEO envisions the stadium as a versatile venue for concerts and community events, further enhancing Corktown’s development and economic growth.
Detroit – The Detroit City Football Club (DCFC) has unveiled plans for a new stadium, AlumniFi Field, set to rise in Corktown by spring 2027. This ambitious project will have a seating capacity of 15,000 and is budgeted at an estimated $150 million.
Demolition of the long-vacant Southwest Detroit Hospital, located at the stadium site, will commence this fall, aided by a $6 million grant. The restoration efforts have already begun, with crews draining over 1 million gallons of toxic water from the basement of the former hospital. Construction of AlumniFi Field is planned to start before the end of 2025, marking a significant milestone for both DCFC and the Corktown community.
AlumniFi, a brand affiliated with the Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, will partner with the stadium as its naming rights sponsor. While the specific terms of this long-term agreement have not been disclosed, it is noted to be a substantial investment in the project.
The development will not only feature the stadium but also include an adjacent parking deck, around 15,000 square feet of retail space, and approximately 70 units dedicated to affordable housing. This aligns with DCFC’s commitment to making the stadium a resource for the community, rather than just a sports venue.
The club’s CEO has indicated that the stadium’s design aims to serve a dual purpose; hosting various events, including concerts and college sports, in addition to professional soccer. This ambition reflects DCFC’s broader vision for engaging with and enhancing the Corktown area.
In terms of financing, AlumniFi Field is set to be privately owned and funded, differentiating it from many public stadiums. This ownership structure puts the responsibility of property taxes onto DCFC, marking a significant financial commitment from the organization.
Public approval processes for tax abatements are currently in motion, which will play a crucial role in funding the future development. Community engagement appears strong, with over 600 RSVPs for a recent unveiling event, highlighting the interest and investment from Cordktown residents.
Since its inception in 2012, DCFC has evolved from playing at Cass Tech to Keyworth Stadium, and the new stadium represents a long-awaited leap toward a dedicated home. The club’s quest for stadium land began in 2020, where it faced the challenge of acquiring various parcels from private owners while maintaining discretion about its intentions for the site.
Additionally, there are plans to establish a commercial corridor along 20th Street, connecting Vernor with Michigan Avenue, further solidifying the stadium’s role as a central hub for community activity.
With a projected completion date aligned with the USL Championship season, AlumniFi Field is poised to transform Corktown, promising economic growth and a vibrant gathering space for future generations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Sports Business Journal: Q&A with Detroit City FC CEO
- Google Search: Detroit City FC stadium
- Detroit News: Q&A with Detroit City FC CEO
- Wikipedia: Detroit City FC
- Detroit Free Press: Detroit FC new stadium sponsor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Detroit
- WXYZ: Detroit City FC reveals new stadium
- Google News: Detroit City Football Club
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GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
