Ann Arbor opts for LRT

A study evaluating high-capacity transit options for Ann Arbor, Mich., and the University of Michigan found that light rail transit (LRT) would be the preferred mode of transport.

The Ann Arbor Connector, a partnership of the city of Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan, the Ann Arbor Development Authority and the Ann Arbor Area Transit Authority, selected a 4.78-mile, nine-station LRT to connect downtown Ann Arbor, the Central and North Campus of the university, Plymouth Road and Main Street.

The system is estimated to cost between $560 and $680 million and would be built in two phases. The first phase would extend from Plymouth Road/US 23 into downtown Ann Arbor providing connections between the major trip generators at the university and downtown Ann Arbor. The second phase of the system would extend the line south from downtown to the vicinity of Briarwood Mall near State Street / I-94.

The study evaluated LRT and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and concluded that LRT would provide a better long-term, sustainable solution consistent with the project goals. While BRT would have lower initial capital costs, annual operating costs would be substantially higher than a rail-based system. The forecast level of passenger demand would exceed the practical capacity of a BRT system. Larger rail transit vehicles, in one- or two-car configurations, can accommodate the forecast level of passenger demand.

Project stakeholders said should the community decide to proceed with the Ann Arbor Connector, a capital funding plan would be developed and the project would be incorporated into the regional transportation funding process. The project would be paid for by federal and local sources, and the University of Michigan is committed to participating in project funding.

The next step toward implementation of the Ann Arbor Connector is conceptual design and environmental review.

A PDF of The Connector Alternatives Analysis Final Summary Report can be downloaded at the link below.