Detroit's Oakland County suburbs are pushing to extend a light rail extension into their neighborhoods with such fervor that they may accomplish what the political system couldn't, says reporter Matt Helms.
Construction is scheduled to begin next year on a light rail line from downtown to 8 Mile, but six cities and towns further down the line are rallying to be included:
"Supporters say extending the rail north would connect it to suburban hot spots, including downtowns in Royal Oak and Birmingham; boost property values and redevelopment, and raise crucial suburban support for a plan that, so far, has stayed within city limits."
A task force of local leaders has formed and is petitioning the Federal government for funds to make the extension happen.
FULL STORY: Study examines extending Woodward light rail from Detroit to suburbs like Ferndale, Birmingham
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Since Detroit's new streetcar system started charging, ridership has dropped. Those who are riding aren't necessarily paying anyways.
Detroit's M-1 Rail Line Credited for Delivering Investment—A Year Before Opening
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Comparing Boondoggles: Light Rail Line in Detroit, Streetcar in Washington D.C.
Jim Epstein suggests that Detroit's new light rail line is America's largest boondoggle; Matthew Yglesias argues that that ignominy belongs to Washington D.C.'s planned streetcar.
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Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
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Record Temperatures Prompt Push for Environmental Justice Bills
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Downtown Pittsburgh Set to Gain 1,300 New Housing Units
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