Motorists in Detroit are hitting another roadblock as the city ramps up preparations for the NFL Draft, launching the latest phase of traffic disruptions. Commencing April 15, with the road closures spreading across the downtown area, city officials have outlined extensive adjustments to transportation as the NFL Draft Experience presented by Rocket Mortgage sets up shop. Jefferson Avenue, among other streets, will be barricaded to pave the way for the fan festivities.
The third phase of road closures signifies the most considerable impact on Detroit’s thoroughfares to date. A stretch of Jefferson Avenue—both eastbound and westbound lanes by Hart Plaza—is shut down through May 6. This is to accommodate the free fan festival set to take place during all three days of the Draft. The City of Detroit, through an announcement on its website, urges those traveling around downtown to note that sidewalks will remain open and access to businesses is not hindered by the closures.
Other key closures include the SB M-10 exit to Jefferson Avenue, parts of Bates Street, Brush Street, and Atwater Street. With Jefferson Avenue's closure, tunnel traffic to Windsor is re-routed via I-375. The phase two and one closures, affecting streets such as Woodward Avenue and Cadillac Square, remain in effect, overlapping with the new restrictions. The city has stressed the importance of adhering to parking restrictions as well, hinting at a stern towing policy for improperly parked vehicles.
As the Draft nears, the NFL excitement is palpable in downtown Detroit, with banners and painted transformer boxes paying homage to sports legends. Alongside the infrastructure for the NFL Draft Theater, the NFL Draft Experience promises interactive displays and activities, from photo ops with the Vince Lombardi Trophy to autograph sessions with current and past NFL greats. For those planning to join the draft event, which is free to the public, registration through the NFL One Pass app is recommended.
Transportation strategies are in full swing, ensuring fans can navigate the closures with minimal fuss. The city has provided detailed alternatives, including parking information and alternative means of transportation such as the Detroit People Mover, QLINE, and various transit services. They also encourage the use of rideshare options like Uber or Lyft, ensuring attendees have a game plan to tackle the Draft Day journey.
