Did you know that M-1 Rail has to successfully complete 1,100 tests before they can launch passenger operations of the QLINE streetcar? They’ve completed about 75% so far and hope to launch in May. While still in testing, the streetcar is occasionally operating on Woodward. So anyone who lives, works or visit Detroit’s downtown or […]
M-1 to Host Community Meetings in Advance of Launch Read More »
TRU’s Annual Meeting, held Monday January 2017 at the MSU Detroit Center, was packed with over 150 people including transit agency leaders and employees, bus riders, civic leaders, public officials, community activists, and transit supporters.
The event included
1) a TRU presentation on The 2016 Year In Review
2) A State of Metro Detroit Transit Panel Discussion, featuring RTA’s Michael Ford, SMART’s John Hertel, DDOT’s Dan Dirks, and M-1 Rail’s Sommer Woods
3) The TRU Board Election
Highlights of the presentations are summarized with photos and links to videos and downloadable documents.
TRU Annual Meeting highlighted progress, challenges Read More »
If you’re a glass-half-empty person, 2016 was a disappointing year due to the loss of the Regional Transit ballot measure. The request for a major investment in reliable regional rapid transit fell short of the majority it needed to pass.
We at TRU try to see the glass-half-full and see 2016 as a very productive year. Not only did the region demonstrate more civic and voter support for regional transit than ever before, but DDOT bus service significantly improved, M-1 Rail’s QLINE is nearly ready to start, and the new regional Reflex service is providing seamless cross-county connections.
While work remains, 2016 meant notable progress for Detroit area transit. Please enjoy this summary of 2016 Detroit transit and TRU’s Year-in-Review.
Detroit Area Transit Year-in-Review Read More »
Despite a huge effort from many supporters, the Regional Transit funding ballot measure lost with 50.5% no votes outweighing the 49.5% of yes votes.
I am extraordinarily proud of our efforts, including the RTA’s great plan, the immense coalition of supporters and the passionate and hardworking activists. A sincere and deep thank you to each and everyone one of you!
Yes ultimately, our efforts proved to not be enough, especially as our calls for compassion and bringing the region together were drowned out in an election of fear and anger at the “other.”
What’s next? Well, there was no Plan B in place.
The RTA will continue to coordinate transit as they and others discuss and decide what happens next. Please stay tuned and stay involved.
RTA funding vote lost, despite huge need and great support Read More »
While most of the major transit service improvements are dependent on passing the Regional Transit ballot measure this November, there are some important improvements starting now! New regional transit service launching – Reflex! RTA, DDOT, and SMART have partnered up to launch a pilot project called Reflex. Starting Sept 3-5, you can travel quickly and
Exciting Regional Express Bus Service and DDOT Service Expansions! Read More »
