Data collection to date

Comprehensive data collection is key to understanding current mobility conditions and vetting possible improvement strategies. From July through September 2022, the following was collected by the project team:

• Counts, including turning movements of vehicle, pedestrian and bicycle transportation modes at 60 intersections/driveways on the island.
• An aerial traffic inventory study that included 38 flights over the island. Images were taken every 2 seconds and stitched together to create "hourly" aerial images of the island to help illustrate congestion points and popular areas.
• In-person observations of how people use and move around the island.
• Discussions with DNR and Belle Isle Conservancy staff to gather their perspectives.
• Early intercept survey of almost 400 people using the island.
• Inventory of regulatory and wayfinding signs.
• Visitor-use counts via video recording for key areas including the beach, fountain, shelters, Paddock parking area and toll booths.
• Crash analysis and conflict study to address and evaluate safety improvements.

Next steps in the study

Over the next several months the team will:

• Continue to meet with stakeholder groups, including park tenants, vendors, staff, and others who have close relationships with the island, to hear their perspectives and concerns.
• Begin public outreach and  launch a broad public input survey to capture community feedback.  The online survey will be live through Feb. 19, 2023.
• Develop draft strategies over the winter/spring months. The project team will then facilitate a series of opportunities in spring 2023 to talk with the public and stakeholders about the draft strategies for feedback and continued refinement.
• Public and stakeholder feedback will be incorporated into the study analysis and final recommendations for improving park safety and access.

Questions

Amanda Treadwell, Department of Natural Resources, TreadwellA@Michigan.gov

Lori Pawlik, Wade Trim, LPawlik@WadeTrim.com