Wayne County Residents Voice Concerns Over New Public Transit Bill

Wayne County Communities Rally for Transit Incentives

In the heart of Wayne County, the residents and leaders of several communities are feeling the heat from proposed changes to the county’s public transit system. As the Michigan House of Representatives recently passed a significant bill aimed at reinventing public transport, many local officials are voicing their concerns about how this new system might affect their hometowns.

What’s This Bill About?

The bill in question, known as House Bill 6088, is sponsored by state Rep. Alabas Farhat from Dearborn. It aims to eliminate a long-standing rule that permits certain communities to opt-out of the county’s public transit system known as SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation). Currently, there are 17 communities, including popular areas like Canton Township, Northville, and Livonia, that haven’t been participating in or funding SMART.

A New Era of Public Transport?

If the bill becomes law, all Wayne County communities would eventually have to contribute to the transit system starting in 2026. Residents would get to have their say, voting together on a transit millage set at about 1 mill. Supporters are optimistic, stressing that a cohesive transit system could provide a significant boost to economic development and make travel easier for all residents. However, the leaders from opt-out communities are pushing back with valid concerns.

Local Needs Must Be Considered

One vocal critic is Livonia Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan, who pointed out that Livonia decided years ago not to participate in SMART because the county’s fixed bus routes just didn’t make sense for her community. “If we had chosen to opt into SMART, we would be sending approximately $5.6 million a year to them,” Brosnan explained. She further stated that a recent city study revealed fixed routes should mainly be on Plymouth and Newburgh Roads instead of on routes that don’t cater to the needs of local businesses or educational institutions.

Innovating Local Solutions

As a response to the inadequate fixed routes, Livonia has developed its own micro-transit service called Liv&Go. With an annual budget of $500,000, this service offers flexible ride options specifically for seniors and individuals with disabilities within the city. However, Brosnan admitted that it isn’t able to fully cover the transportation needs, especially for longer trips, such as medical appointments outside of Livonia.

Canton Township’s Perspective

A similar sentiment resonates with Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak. “Canton has opted out of SMART since the 1990s, saving millions in taxes for our residents,” she said. While she appreciates the idea of having public transportation available, she is wary of the proposed changes. Graham-Hudak emphasized that local benefits must be crystal clear. “We can’t just say, ‘Okay, we’re putting a millage on you, and sorry, you don’t really get to use anything,'” she stated. Instead, she insists that the taxes collected from Canton should serve the local community’s needs, particularly expanded services like their own Nankin Transit service.

Residents Need to See the Value

In Northville Township, Supervisor Mark Abbo shares similar concerns. He argues that convincing voters of the benefits is crucial: “Northville Township voters are smart. There has to be something in it for them to support a millage. Otherwise, they’ll vote no.” It’s clear that residents want assurance that their community’s needs will be prioritized if they are to pay into a larger system.

What’s Next?

The transit bill is now making its way to the Senate for consideration, sparking discussions and debates throughout the county. As talks continue, it’s clear that communities are looking for a more collaborative approach that aligns public transit services with the specific needs of their residents.

The conversation around public transit in Wayne County is just beginning, and its final shape will depend on continued dialogue between local leaders, residents, and lawmakers. For now, residents and leaders hold their breath, waiting to see how this will unfold. Until then, stay tuned!