M-1 RAIL sets streetcar construction start date

Construction will begin on Detroit's streetcar system on July 28, M-1 RAIL officials announced on Friday.

The construction will require the full closure of Woodward Avenue, from Adam Street to Campus Martius Park, for about 120 days. During the next month, project officials plan to conduct a public outreach campaign to inform area residents, businesses and visitors about what they can expect and how to navigate around the area once construction begins. M-1 RAIL also plans to launch a business support program.

The 3.3-mile streetcar will operate north and south on both sides of Woodward Avenue, between Larned Street and West Grand Boulevard. The line will feature 20 stations — 16 curbside and four median — at 12 locations. The streetcar will serve Detroit's largest job centers and most-visited designations, and is expected to spur economic development in the area, according to a press release.

Construction is expected to be completed in late 2016.