Plans to run a commuter train between Ann Arbor and Livingston County, as an alternative to congestion on US-23, are rapidly moving forward.
Plans right now call for five trains a day during the week, plus weekend service. The stops would be in Howell, on Chilson Road, in Hamburg Township, in the Whitmore Lake area, and on the north side of Ann Arbor. From there, arrangements are being made with the Ann Arbor Transit Authority to take riders to other parts of the city.
They anticipate 1,700 people to ride the train every day. Fares are estimated at $145 per month between Howell and Ann Arbor, and $125 between Whitmore Lake and Ann Arbor. The tentative budget predicted a capital outlay of $2.9 million and an operating budget of $4.9 million in the first year.
The funding is coming from numerous public sources – much of which has already been committed:
- The Michigan Department of Transportation recently guaranteed another $1.4 million, in addition to $375,900 already pledged.
- Washtenaw County has committed $150,000.
- The University of Michigan has pledged about $1.7 million in fares for its employees.
- Northfield Township has pledged $10,000 a year for three years.
Other funding sources are still being considered:
- Project organizers are counting on a $1 million federal grant, although it hasn’t come through yet.
- Livingston County is being asked for $150,000, but has not committed.
- The City of Howell is being asked for between $1.5 and $1.8 million, but had not committed.
If only plans for the Ann Arbor to Detroit train could move so quickly and successfully!