Transportation in Washtenaw County

AnnArbor.com features an article today about plans for significantly improving public transportation in Washtenaw County. Three plans have been proposed by the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA). 20 community forums are scheduled from January 31st to February 23rd in communities all over the county to receive public input on the plans.

The three scenarios offer varying degrees of improvements in county transportation over the next 30 years. The basic plan, called "lifeline plus" calls for increasing the frequency of rides, expanding access to the transportation system, especially for people with disabilities and the elderly, expanding hours of operation, bus stop improvements, and expanding links to other city transportation systems. The two other plans offer further improvements and expansion that will provide more flexibility in the system with a view toward reducing suburban sprawl and promoting compact land use.

Transportation improvement planning has been underway for a year. After the forums, AATA will consider public input, pick a plan, and begin implementation.

The availability of reliable and accessible transportation is vital to improving access to jobs and social and recreational opportunities for people with disabilities. Get involved to find out how AATA plans will affect your disabled family member.

For more information, visit the AATA Website on proposed transportation plans for Washtenaw County and see the schedule for 20 community meetings to be held over the next month.

For more information on transportation issues and disabilities, contact Carolyn Grawi at Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living, (734) 971-0277, or email cgrawi@aacil.org . 

Share any concerns you have about transit with Representative Rick Olson from York Township, Washtenaw County. He was recently appointed to the House Committee on Transportation in the Michigan House of Representatives. Phone: (517) 373-1792 ; E-mail: RickOlson@house.mi.gov .