In response to public feedback, the Michigan Department of Transportation is no longer considering options to widen U.S. 23 on Ann Arbor’s east side.
After Ann Arbor leaders and resident advocates pushed back on proposals to widen U.S. 23 as part of a major improvement project, the Michigan Department of Transportation has taken them off the table., according to an MLive article by reporter Lucas Smolcic. In place of a possible extra general purpose lane, a flex shoulder lane system, or a new high-occupancy vehicle lane, “officials have put forward a new alternative, dubbed ‘safely connecting communities,’ that focuses on rebuilding highway pavement, replacing bridges and making safety improvements with increased options for pedestrians and cyclists.”
MDOT is also working with the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority, TheRide, on public transit improvements, including the possibility of “bus on shoulder” operations during peak traffic conditions and a Washtenaw Avenue interchange. “The transportation agency is still aiming to have the project ready for 2027 construction,” Smolcic reports, and “ plans to continue public engagement around the new design alternative.”
FULL STORY: Highway expansion options cut from big U.S. 23 project in Ann Arbor
California Bill Could Ban Freeway Expansions in Underserved Neighborhoods
A proposed bill in the California State Legislature would bar the state from funding road construction in communities at risk for displacement and health impacts.
TxDOT Wages Quiet Battle to Acquire Properties for I-35 Expansion
TxDOT has filed “takings lawsuits” against holdout property owners along the eight-mile stretch of I-35 slated for widening in Austin, but property owners say the agency isn't offering just compensation.
Ann Arbor Calls for Highway Bus Service
The city council voted unanimously in support of a plan to build more transit and park-and-ride options rather than expand a highway with more car lanes.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Santa Clarita
Ascent Environmental
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service