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Memorial Day weekend in Detroit: Parking tips, expected traffic and public transportation options

City provides tips ahead of busy holiday weekend

FILE - Woodward Avenue in Detroit on March 24, 2020. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) (Paul Sancya, Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Detroit officials released some tips for getting around downtown as several hundred thousand people are expected to visit the city this Memorial Day weekend.

The city is hosting multiple events over the holiday weekend, including:

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  • The annual Movement Electronic Music Festival
  • Tigers/Guardians series
  • Detroit Symphony Orchestra performances
  • Concerts at Ford Field, The Fox Theatre and Music Hall

Here’s information about expected traffic congestion, parking, public transportation and more.

Construction, expected traffic

City officials said drivers should expect traffic backups at the I-75 Grand River and I-375 Madison exits. The M-10 Larned ramp will be open during the holiday weekend.

There is currently construction on Jefferson, Randolph, Monroe and Broadway that may cause traffic congestion downtown. Monroe Street is closed to cars, but businesses in Greektown remain open.

Parking tips

People heading into the city over the Memorial Day weekend are encouraged to use the Park Detroit app to find parking on streets and in garages. You can also find parking garages near your event using ParkWhiz.

Due to the number of people expected to be in the city, visitors should expect to park about 5 to 10 minutes away from a venue, according to city officials.

The Ford Underground Parking Garage at 30 East Jefferson Avenue will be open 24 hours from Saturday to Monday, according to the city. The full day rate is $10.

Those who decide to park in a spot on the street should be sure to avoid blocking crosswalks and hydrants. Violators could be ticketed and have their cars towed.

Additionally, inspectors will be looking out for any price gouging at parking lots across the city, but want drivers to also stay alert.

When it comes to parking in lots, the city said people should make sure:

  • A current business license and plate posted
  • The attendant on duty has a badge from the Detroit Police Department
  • There’s proper lighting, barriers and signage
  • Name, address and contact number of the parking lot operator are posted
  • The rate in effect is posted

Rideshare, public transportation

City officials said the following options are also available for people to get around downtown:

  • Free QLINE open until 1 am, $5 Park and Ride ($5 Park and Ride at WSU Lot 12 at 6050 Woodward – Use QLINE Amsterdam Station)
  • Free People Mover open until 1 am ($25 Parking on Huntington Place Roof – Use People Mover Huntington Place Station)
  • Use DDOT or SMART Buses to get downtown
  • Rideshare pick-up/drop-off on Chrysler Service Drive in Brush Park
  • DPM Financial District Station puts riders steps away from Hart Plaza for all-event access

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