← Back to feedIn a concerted effort to improve public transportation accessibility, Wayne County officials have announced a proposal for a new millage to fund the expansion and integration of bus services throughout the county. This initiative seeks to address the transportation challenges faced by over 300,000 residents who are unable or choose not to drive, many of whom currently have limited transit options.
The proposed millage would add 0.98 mills to property taxes, equating to approximately $8 per month for homeowners with a taxable value of $200,000. The Wayne County Transit Authority would oversee the expanded services, with the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) operating most new routes. Additionally, on-demand services are planned for less densely populated areas to ensure comprehensive coverage. Notably, Detroit is excluded from this proposal, as it manages its own transit system in cooperation with SMART.
Advocates for the millage emphasize the critical need for enhanced transit options, highlighting that many residents without access to personal vehicles face significant mobility challenges. The expansion aims to provide more reliable and widespread bus services, thereby improving access to employment, education, and essential services across Wayne County.
However, the proposal has faced opposition. A lawsuit was filed earlier this month, alleging a lack of transparency in the process. The chairman of the Wayne County Transit Authority has denied these claims, asserting that the initiative has been conducted with full transparency.
The millage proposal is set to be presented to voters in the upcoming August 4 primary election. If approved, the expanded transit services are expected to roll out in phases, with the first new routes anticipated to begin operation in early 2027. The initiative represents a significant investment in the county's infrastructure, aiming to foster economic growth and improve the quality of life for its residents.ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.