ReImagine Washtenaw Corridor Improvement Study
/
Click the image to download the document
“A multi-jurisdictional, cooperative initiative to TRANSFORM Washtenaw Avenue around efficient mass transit into an attractive, vibrant, walkable, mixed-use corridor, with sense of place."
The ReImagine Washtenaw coalition recently released the final ReImagine Washtenaw Corridor Improvement Study, formerly known as the “Right-of-Way” study. This project was funded by the HUD Sustainable Communities Challenge Grant, which wraps up in January 2015. This work represents a step forward for ReImagine Washtenaw in creating a coherent cross-section plan for the future of the corridor. The plan provides the clearest understanding of how to achieve a multi-modal street, where reasonable accommodations are provided for, not only vehicular travel, but also pedestrians and bicyclists.
Specific goals of this corridor improvement study included:
- Identifying the limits of the existing MDOT right-of-way.
- Expand multi-modal transportation choices and increase user safety.
- Improve the streetscape environment and non-motorized infrastructure.
- Improve pedestrian safety at signalized intersections and proposed mid-block crossings.
- Provide the potential for improved transit service and enhanced user experience.
- Identify the extent of additional property required to implement the recommended improvements.
A possible multi-modal future for Washtenaw Ave.
The study lays out a clear, dimensional plan for the future cross sections of each segment of the corridor. The plan calls for four, 11 ft. travel lanes and a middle left-turn lane (or median) throughout the entire length of the corridor. In addition, a continuous, eight (8) foot wide bike lane, including a three foot buffer, is planned as part of the future cross-section.
Given the important role that public transit will play in the economic redevelopment strategy for the corridor, careful planning was undertaken to find appropriate locations for bus stops with enhanced services and amenities, called “Super Transit Stops.” These stops will support continued improvements to the transit service along the corridor, and are a necessary component to possible future Bus Rapid Transit service along the corridor.
