The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority's (DRCFA) ongoing investment in the Huntington Place convention center continues to move forward, with several major milestones reached this year that will strengthen its competitiveness and enhance the visitor experience.
As owner's representative for the Huntington Place expansion, Plante Moran Realpoint (PMR) has been proud to support DRCFA in advancing multiple projects that are helping Huntington Place enhance its reputation as a premier destination for conventions, meetings, and events.
Second Avenue nears completion
A key milestone was reached in March 2026 with the placement of structural steel beams on the final bridge structure over the Congress Street onramp to the Lodge Freeway. This progress advanced the project into its final phase, which will create a new intersection at Congress Street and Second Avenue. PMR has continued to support DRCFA by helping maintain operations at Huntington Place and its loading dock during active roadway construction. As the project nears completion, PMR looks forward to supporting DRCFA as it prepares to cut the ribbon on the Second Avenue project in late 2026.
Expanded parking capacity
Another significant milestone was achieved in May 2026, with the completion of Phase 1 of the former Joe Louis Arena parking garage project. The completion of this phase opened 965 parking spaces, helping support strategic hotel partnerships and private parking, which are important to Huntington Place's ability to compete in the convention and events marketplace and attract new clients. The additional parking capacity also improves convenience for event attendees while supporting future growth at the facility.
PMR was able to assist the DRCFA in the expansion of the project scope to include an additional 365 parking spaces by tactfully deploying the owner’s budget. Through the course of construction PMR facilitated multiple scope reviews and value engineering sessions. These sessions ultimately allowed PMR to deliver the project to the owner under budget.
PMR is currently assisting the DRCFA in planning exercises related to Phase 2 of the garage.
Skybridge Connector construction progress
Construction also continues on the new Skybridge Connector, which broke ground in December 2025. The skybridge connector will link Huntington Place and the new JW Marriott hotel, providing a seamless visitor experience. Once complete, the connector will provide enhanced accessibility and convenience for visitors, creating a more integrated experience between the convention center and nearby hospitality accommodations.
A new revenue-generating event space added
One of the most exciting potential enhancements to the skybridge connector to emerge during project planning is the addition of an activated rooftop event space above the Skybridge Connector.
Working closely with DRCFA and its Customer Advisory Board, PMR helped identify an opportunity to create a unique venue that responds to customer demand while generating additional revenue opportunities for the convention center. PMR has helped to facilitate the concept evaluations, feasibility analysis, and coordination efforts needed to understand budget and schedule impacts, allowing DRCFA to make informed decisions on this enhancement of their project scope.
The new rooftop venue will offer a distinctive setting with stunning views of the Detroit River, creating a compelling option for receptions, special events, and convention-related programming. The addition further strengthens Huntington Place's competitive position by expanding its portfolio of flexible event spaces and enhancing its appeal to prospective customers.
Looking ahead
These milestones represent important steps in DRCFA's broader effort to enhance Huntington Place and support Detroit's continued growth as a destination for conventions, meetings, and events.
Plante Moran Realpoint is honored to partner with DRCFA as these projects move forward and looks forward to supporting the next phases of development.
Read the full case study to learn more about how DRCFA is advancing its $550 million expansion program and how Plante Moran Realpoint is helping deliver these transformational projects.
