Ferndale deemed leader in good street design, all-inclusive transportation

A coalition of groups that wants to promote transportation as an economic development tool and way to make towns more livable and equitable for all is touring Michigan cities that may be getting it right. And metro Detroit's Ferndale made the list.

Earlier this week Trans4M led the Michigan Transportation Odyssey 2014 by inviting the public on a tour and discussion of five Michigan cities. With city planners, road engineers and business owners and others the idea was to show the value and challenges of good street design. That is street design that promotes walkability and livability and makes it easy and safe to get from Point A to Point B, especially for commuters without access to cars, or with limited mobility.

Ferndale made the tour for its success at "embracing innovative solutions" such as buffered and green bike lanes, and its currently unfolding comprehensive Complete Streets plan.

Detroit, as it awaits a new light rail trolley that's now under construction, was the starting point of the tour.

Other stops were in Brighton, Lansing, Midland and Sault Ste. Marie.

Source: Laurel Burchfield, Trans4M
Writer: Kim North Shine
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