HAMTRAMCK, Mich. – The Detroit City Football Club paid off debts owed in revenue sharing agreements to renovate the historic Keyworth Stadium this week -- two years ahead of schedule.
Agreements were made in 2016 that the money would be paid back in six years.
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When the soccer team moved to Keyworth in Hamtramck, it utilized the Michigan Invests Locally Exemption to fix up the stadium.
DCFC wanted to raise $400,000 to $750,000 to improve the stadium. Renovations included structural improvements to the grandstands, as well as repairs to bleachers, locker rooms, restrooms and lighting.
The 109 day campaign raised $725,500 in pledges from 499 verified Michigan investors.
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“The community investment campaign was a tremendous success thanks to our community and supporters,” said Todd Kropp, DCFC co-owner and COO. “Investors helped us breathe new life into Keyworth Stadium and establish a solid foundation on which we will continue building DCFC. We are pleased to be in a position to pay back the investments earlier than projected and to have delivered a solid rate of return to those that took a chance in supporting our project.”
The Detroit City season begins on the road Feb. 28 with a game against Los Angeles before the home season begins March 21 at Keyworth.
It will be the team’s first season as a professional team.
DCFC was approved by U.S. Soccer in 2019 to play professionally in the National Independent Soccer Association and a women’s team will play its first season this year.