Survey: Detroit arena workers want wage hikes
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City Council President Mary Sheffield speaks at a press conference in September with union members who work at Detroit arenas. Photo: Annalise Frank/Axios
Nearly a third of surveyed downtown Detroit arena workers live below the poverty line, according to a recent survey compiled by Wayne State researchers.
Why it matters: The survey informs the city's Industry Standards Board for arena workers, created in 2023 to recommend industry-wide improvements of working conditions.
- As downtown becomes an entertainment destination and visitors spend more, workers' representatives say more of that success should be felt by these venues' workers.
What's inside: The survey found that many like working in arenas, but they need to make a living wage and health benefits — especially with rising costs of living and increasing arena ticket prices.
- Transit was also a sticking point — both the lack of speedy, reliable public transit and free parking for employees.
- Surveyed employees included cleaning, maintenance, food, ticketing, stage work and other roles at Ford Field, Comerica Park and Little Caesars Arena.
By the numbers: The survey found 72% of workers had no benefits, 32% lived below the federal poverty level and 20% reported regular food insecurity, while just 18% had health insurance and 12% had paid time off and/or sick leave.
- Average wages varied by job type, from $14.11 for game day roles and $14.95 for cleaning to $20.02 for maintenance and $25.98 for stagehands.
- Respondents were a median age of 47, with 37% having a high school diploma or GED, working an average of six years in arenas. Eighty-four percent were represented by a union, and 38% had minor children. Respondents were 47% Black, 37% white and 16% multiracial or another group.
How it worked: The August–October survey overseen by Wayne State social work assistant professor Kess Ballentine received 320 responses — an estimated 10% of these arena workers, according to the survey.
- Anyone who worked at a local arena over the last year could participate.
Reality check: Ford Field workers and security guards are underrepresented in the figures. The report suggests more outreach.
What they're saying: The operator of Comerica Park and LCA "provides exciting opportunities for a diverse, part-time and seasonal workforce of all experience and skill levels at its world class sports and entertainment venues," Ron Colangelo, Ilitch Sports and Entertainment senior vice president, tells Axios in a statement.
- "... Our colleagues tell us they appreciate flexible schedules, competitive pay and a team atmosphere."
- A Lions representative did not respond to Axios' request for comment.
What's next: The arena labor board's chair, Joe Miller, tells Axios it will start discussing the survey at its next monthly meeting, Feb. 19 at 5:30pm at City Hall, and hear testimony from workers.