Title
Resolution in Support of TheRide's Proposal to Explore Alternative Options on the US-23 Corridor Project
Body
Whereas, In 2021, Ann Arbor City Council adopted Moving Towards Vision Zero Transportation Plan which recommends 1) engaging MDOT to integrate priority measures for transit or other shared-mobility modes (e.g., high-occupancy vehicle lanes or shoulder-running transit lanes) as part of any future freeway corridor reinvestments, and 2) Developing/expanding convenient park-and-ride lots at interchanges outside the city limits, in coordination with MDOT;
Whereas, TheRide, Ann Arbor's public transportation authority, has proposed an alternative option to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) regarding the US-23 Corridor Project, which aims to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce emissions, and improve transit options for commuters;
Whereas, TheRide's proposal involves the strategic construction of park and ride facilities along the US-23 corridor, coupled with the use of coach bus services to transport passengers into the City of Ann Arbor;
Whereas, City Council passed Resolution R-23-386, calling on MDOT to implement a design for the project area that does not include adding lanes or other actions that will increase private vehicle traffic volume in the project area and to define the project scope and budget so as to be sufficient to address all mobility needs, including walking, biking, and transit connections across US-23;
Whereas, TheRide’s proposal offers a potential solution that may obviate the need for widening US-23, thereby mitigating the environmental impacts associated with such infrastructure expansion and potentially reducing the financial burden on taxpayers, while promoting the use of public transit; and
Whereas, The implementation of park-and-rides and expanded bus services aligns with the City of Ann Arbor's goals of promoting sustainable transportation options, enhancing accessibility for all, expanding travel options throughout the region, and integrating its transit system with wider regional networks;
RESOLVED, The Ann Arbor City Council expresses its full support for TheRide's proposal to MDOT for exploring alternative, pro-transit options on the US-23 Corridor Project;
RESOLVED, The Ann Arbor City Council urges MDOT to seriously consider TheRide’s proposal and to engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to further explore the costs, metrics, and potential benefits of the proposed alternative transit solution; and
RESOLVED, Ann Arbor City Council directs the City Administrator to send a copy of this resolution to the TheRide, Michigan Department of Transportation, our state legislative delegation, Governor Whitmer, and Congressional representatives.
Sponsored by: Councilmembers Briggs and Akmon