METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Detroit region transit plan includes BRT, commuter rail

The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan's plan includes more than 70 bus rapid transit stops on three corridors, a transit connection to Detroit Metro Airport, and a commuter rail line connecting Detroit to Ann Arbor, Mich.,

April 19, 2016
Detroit region transit plan includes BRT, commuter rail

Shakil Mustafa

1 min to read


Shakil Mustafa

DETROIT — With four counties expected to weigh a tax millage to pay for public transportation in November, the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan (RTA) unveiled its plan, which includes more than 70 bus rapid transit (BRT) stops on three corridors, a transit connection to Detroit Metro Airport, and a commuter rail line connecting Detroit to Ann Arbor, Mich., the Detroit Free Press reports.

Initial cost estimates provided by the RTA say the three-route BRT lines would each cost about $20 million per year to operate and $4 million to $9 million per mile to build, depending on the final design. The rail line, which would use existing infrastructure but require some upgrades, would cost $8 million to $12 million per year to operate.

Ad Loading...

The RTA is holding a string of open houses in advance of the crucial November vote. For the full story, click here.

More Management

An ABC motorcoach on the road.
Motorcoach•by Alex Roman•November 1, 2026

Financing, Fleet Replacement Require a More Strategic Approach

Executives from ABC Companies and MCI discuss how rising costs, changing market conditions, and post-pandemic challenges are prompting motorcoach operators to rethink financing strategies, fleet replacement cycles, and long-term planning.

Read More →
Austin Light Rail rendering from UT perspective
Rail•by Alex Roman•October 30, 2026

Bringing Austin’s First Light Rail System to Life

Austin Transit Partnership CEO Greg Canally discusses the city's nearly 10-mile light rail project, its collaborative approach to project delivery, the importance of community engagement, and the milestones ahead as construction approaches in 2027.

Read More →
Technology•October 30, 2026

ETA CEO John Maglio on Transit Technology, Innovation, and Building Agency Trust

ETA founder and CEO John Maglio explores the evolution of transit technology, the importance of reliable systems, and how stronger partnerships can help agencies improve operations and the passenger experience.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Two Metra locomotives on rail tracks.
Rail•by Alex Roman•October 29, 2026

Metra Draft Plan Outlines Costs, Service Improvements for Regional Rail

The Systemwide Network Plan identifies infrastructure needs and potential investments to expand all-day, bidirectional rail service across the Chicago region.

Read More →
Justin Augustine III, CEO for New Orleans RTA
Management•by Alex Roman•October 29, 2026

New Orleans RTA Names Augustine III as New CEO

In this edition, we also spotlight recent personnel moves at HDR, PATH, STV, and more, highlighting the people taking on new roles across the transportation industry.

Read More →
A ballot drop-off box marked “Vote” stands in the foreground at a transit station, with public transit buses visible in the background.
Management•by Elora Haynes•October 28, 2026

How Transit Agencies Are Using Free Rides to Improve Voting Access

Transit agencies are using fare-free service, trip-planning tools, and targeted rides to improve voting access. See what other agencies can learn from these efforts.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A Caltrain electric railcar on the tracks
Rail•by Alex Roman•October 27, 2026

Caltrain’s Electrification Drives a New Era of Ridership Growth

The railroad’s shift to electric service has brought more frequent trains, stronger customer satisfaction, and increased ridership, earning it APTA’s Outstanding Public Transportation System award.

Read More →
METRO Magazine graphic featuring a Chicago Transit Authority bus at a transit station with the headline “Chicago, Charlotte Transit Agencies Expand Rider Support Programs.”
Management•by Elora Haynes•October 27, 2026

Chicago, Charlotte Transit Agencies Expand Rider Support Programs

CTA launched crisis intervention teams as CATS prepares to deploy fare ambassadors, expanding customer assistance and security efforts across both systems.

Read More →
An A line MTA subway car near the soon to be replaced signaling system.
Rail•by Staff and News Reports•October 23, 2026

New York MTA Launches Historic $1.9B Signal, Track Modernization Project

Funded in part by congestion pricing revenue, the project will replace nearly century-old signals along the A and C lines in Brooklyn and Queens.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Turning Transportation Challenges into Opportunities
Management•by Alex Roman•October 22, 2026

Brian Dickson on Building Stronger, More Resilient Transportation Organizations

Bus Business Consultants Founder Brian Dickson discusses the leadership principles, operational discipline, and strategic planning that separate transportation companies positioned for long-term success from those stuck in survival mode.

Read More →