Construction has begun on Detroit City Football Club’s (DCFC) new 15,000-seat stadium, AlumniFi Field, which is to be built on the site of the former Southwest Detroit Hospital in Michigan, US.
The development marks a significant step in DCFC’s planned $150m-plus stadium project, which forms part of a wider $200m mixed-use redevelopment intended to transform the area into a year-round sports and entertainment destination.
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The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield, representatives from development partners, and several civic and project leaders.
DCFC co-founder and CEO Sean Mann said: “As a club built from the ground up by Detroiters, this moment reflects years of work, belief and investment from our supporters and partners.
“Breaking ground on AlumniFi Field brings us one step closer to creating a forever home for our supporters and a development that reflects the pride, history and future of this city.”
The broader redevelopment at the site, acquired by DCFC in 2024, will also include a 421-space car park and a 104-unit residential building, incorporating 76 affordable housing units.
The Detroit City Council unanimously approved the project in November 2025, following the Community Benefits Ordinance process.
The agreement includes more than $2.27m in commitments to the local community, such as $1.2m for neighbourhood organisations and 3,000 annual free tickets for nearby residents.
It also provides a minimum wage of $17 per hour with local hiring priorities, a $200,000 revolving loan fund for small businesses, and investments in public art, transport and pedestrian safety.
AlumniFi naming rights sponsor and official financial partner president and CEO April Clobes said: “We’re proud to partner with Detroit City FC on a development that honours the history of this site while creating new opportunities for the city of Detroit.
“At AlumniFi, we believe strong communities start with financial well-being, and we’re committed to helping people build the generational wealth needed to thrive and achieve their dreams.”
Sheffield said: “This is exactly the kind of neighbourhood investment we want to see across Detroit. This property sat vacant for far too long; now this redevelopment is creating lasting benefits for Detroiters.
“It will extend beyond the project itself with direct support for neighbourhood organisations, local hiring, small businesses and improvements that residents will benefit from for years to come.”
The stadium development is expected to generate approximately 1,030 construction jobs and 142 permanent, full-time roles.
Already, nearly 6,000 seat orders for the 2028 season have been secured through deposits.
DCFC and partners aim to acknowledge the legacy of the former hospital, recognised as the first in Detroit to accredit African American doctors and nurses, through commemorative features and artistic installations within the stadium and surrounding development.
Demolition of the hospital building was completed earlier this year. The new stadium is scheduled to open in 2028.
