The Woodward Transit Catalyst Project

Principal Investigators

  • Dr. Leo Hanifin
    University of Detroit Mercy

Co-Investigators

  • Stephen Vogel
    University of Detroit Mercy
  • Dr. Wladek Fuchs
    University of Detroit Mercy
  • Julie Kim
    University of Detroit Mercy
  • Scott Anderson
    University of Detroit Mercy
  • Dr. Alan Hoback
    University of Detroit Mercy

Project Dates:

09/01/2007 to 08/31/2009

Project year: Year 1

MIOH-UTC Project Identifier: TS 19

Focus Area:

  • Research: Intelligent Transportation Systems

Abstract:

The Woodward Transit Catalyst Project is proposed to be an enhanced in-street system, pre-board fare payment and signal pre-emption to provide a near-rapid-transit level of service for a comparatively low cost.

It is anticipated to be a 3.4-mile light rail line powered by overhead electrical wires. The planned location of operation proposed is Woodward Avenue (M-1) from Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit, Michigan to West Grand Boulevard in the Detroit New Center area, a route chosen for its destinations, relative ease of construction and expansion, connectivity to other current and planned transit systems, including bus and rail, and the opportunity it provides for transit-oriented business development.

The project is undertaken by a team of UDM faculty in conjunction with Deloitte & Touche LLP. This project is proposed as a first stage in a plan for a regional rapid transit system.

http://www.udmercy.edu/spiritus/archive/2009-09/inside-view/index.htm#lightrail

DataSheet

M-1_Rail_Face_Sheet.pdf


Final Report:

MIOH_UTC_TS19_WOODWARD_TRANSIT_CATALYST_PLAN_FINAL_ DOCUMENT_11-07.pdf

Total Budget: $300,000

Sponsorships:

University of Detroit Mercy, Deloitte & Touche LLP, Downtown Detroit Partnership, Inc.