DTW FedEx Air Cargo Build-to-Suit: Romulus, MI

Completed in 2024, this 302,613 SF LEED Certified Build-to-Suit facility marked a major consolidation and expansion initiative for FedEx Express at Detroit Metropolitan Airport in Romulus, MI. The planning began in 2019 through a collaborative effort between FedEx and the Wayne County Airport Authority. The project team worked closely with local, state, and federal agencies to implement a strategy that minimized impacts to natural resources while delivering a facility tailored to FedEx’s programming and operational requirements.

The site, located near a former ARFF Fire Burn Area, underwent extensive environmental testing. In coordination with the Wayne County Airport Authority, the team identified sensitive materials within the project boundaries and established specific handling and placement protocols when such materials were encountered.

Specialized Stormwater Collection System

To support FedEx’s winter aircraft operations, the team designed a specialized stormwater collection system to accommodate local deicing activities. This led to the installation of a 1,000,000-gallon underground detention system that temporarily stores stormwater during winter months. The collected water is then diverted to a regional airport detention pond, where glycol-containing runoff is captured and recycled for alternative uses.

Landscape Design and Improved Roadway Conditions

Specific landscaping choices were made to support the operational needs of the site. For example, tree and grass species were carefully selected to avoid attracting birds and wildlife, helping to reduce potential interference with aircrafts and enhance overall safety. The FedEx Air Cargo facility represents the consolidation of three separate FedEx operations into a single location. This strategic move significantly reduced daily truck traffic and associated emissions by centralizing logistics and streamlining transportation routes.