Elevated Transit Route to Connect University of Michigan Campuses Moves Ahead

The University of Michigan has begun advancing plans to construct a new state-of-the-art automated and elevated transit system designed to link multiple campuses in Ann Arbor. The transit system will span over three miles, according to a recent announcement from university administrators. Efforts to find potential partners for the design, construction, and long-term operation of this trailblazing transit system are now in progress.

The Vision for a More Connected Campus

The proposed transit system forms a significant part of the University’s Campus Connector initiative, which is geared towards providing various modes of transportation and connectivity among the Central, Medical, and North campuses. Commenting on the project, Chief Financial Officer Geoff Chatas expressed fervent eagerness towards the impending partnerships.

“With the release of a Request for Qualification (RFQ), we are eager to further the development of a more cohesive and integrated campus. We anticipate prospectively assessing partners committed to building an equitable and sustainable transit system that accommodates our growing university needs,” Chatas expressed in a statement.

A Future Vision of the University’s Transportation Network

The elevated transit system forms part of the wider Campus Plan 2050 initiative seeking to transform the Ann Arbor campus by 2050. Earlier this year, university officials presented draft maps of an automated transit system that would serve Central Campus, the Medical Campus, and extend as far as the North Campus Research Complex off Plymouth Road.

Potential Benefits of the Elevated Transit System

Apart from facilitating a smoother connection between campuses, the automated system is projected to significantly minimize traffic congestion and parking demand. It will also serve to stimulate local economic development opportunities, foster more interaction between North and Central campuses, and help the university achieve its carbon neutrality goals, officials stated.

Functional Overview of the Proposed Transit System

The proposed transit system is slated to include six passenger stations across campus and approximately 3.5 miles of an elevated guideway. The stations will be located at the Central Campus Transit Center on North University Avenue, the Medical campus, and the following North Campus locations: Green Road, Pierpont Commons, Hubbard and Murfin avenues and the North Campus Research Complex.

The system is devised to accommodate up to 4,000 passengers per hour, with multiple university officials sharing expectations for its capacity to grow over time. It’s also set to be supplemented by a bus rapid transit system.

Next Steps For The Project

University officials have begun proceedings to shortlist potential partners with a keen eye towards sustainability and innovation. These potential partners will subsequently submit requests for proposals, and the most compelling bid will be chosen for project development.

Administrators have noted that project details may change as it progresses, promising to provide more information as it becomes available. With this project, University of Michigan continues its journey towards a more connected and sustainable future.