Guide to M-1 Rail project in Detroit

Are local construction and material supply companies working on the streetcar project?

Yes, businesses certified as Detroit-based and minority or women-owned have been awarded contracts for services that include demolition, trucking, sewer and utilities, Flagging, welding, surveying, paving and fencing.

Have the streetcars been purchased?

M-1 RAIL has requested the best and final offers from its preferred streetcar vendors. Once a decision is made, delivery is estimated for late 2015.

How does the rail line differ from the Detroit People Mover?

The Detroit People Mover is an elevated circulator system within Downtown Detroit. The Woodward Avenue streetcar is a linear system co-mingled with vehicular traffic that will travel north and south along Woodward Avenue with 11 stops between Larned Street at the south end and West Grand Boulevard at the north end.  They are complementary systems to move residents, visitors and employees.

How will bus service along Woodward Avenue be affected?

Bus service will not be significantly affected. For example, Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) Route 53 (Woodward Avenue) will continue to operate as usual.  Route 53 service will continue with established headways along the corridor during the day and after the evening rush hour. DDOT and SMART transit stops along Woodward may be reviewed during later phases of the project to determine possible consolidation or relocation of bus stops, if warranted by streetcar service.

How will the streetcar impact bicyclists?

The streetcar is designed for use in high pedestrian areas. Due to streetcar vehicles operating in the roadway and being required to follow normal traffic flow. This creates a more predictable environment for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Where the streetcar will be center-running, north of Burroughs Street, there will be a different impact for bicyclists. South of Burroughs Street, where the streetcar will be side-running, cyclists are encouraged to use alternate routes. Should they choose Woodward in that area they should ride between the rails or in the available parking lane. Cyclists will need to be cautious when crossing or coming in contact with the streetcar tracks so they don't fall in the flange. M-1 is participating in additional outreach within non-motorized groups to continue to discuss additional steps that can be taken to ensure bike safety along and around the Woodward Corridor. M-1 is dedicated to working with all partners to continue to improve ride-ability and safety for cyclists along all routes.