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US-12 (Michigan Avenue) Corktown Improvement Project

MDOT, in coordination with the City of Detroit, completed a planning and environmental linkages (PEL) study along US-12 (Michigan Avenue) from I-96 to Campus Martius Park in the city of Detroit. The final PEL report provides a framework for the future of Michigan Avenue. The PEL process approach to transportation decision-making considers environmental, historical, cultural, and feasibility issues early in the transportation planning process. Various forms of public involvement were part of the PEL study process, including local and governmental advisory committee meetings to help the project team steer the planning efforts and communicate effectively. These meetings will be staggered with larger public meetings.

Locally Acceptable Alternative

Based on the comments and feedback received from the community, the final acceptable alternative features:

  • A dedicated transit lane with space for autonomous vehicles.
  • One vehicle travel lane in each direction with a left turn/U-turn lane at signalized intersection.
  • Sidewalk-level bike lanes on both sides of the street.
  • Expanded sidewalk space.
  • Space for trees and planting.
  • New concrete brick road pavers in the historic districts.
  • Historic brick pavers reused in extra sidewalk space throughout the corridor.

The acceptable alternative provides space for all users of Michigan Avenue, plans for future mobility, and complements the character of Corktown and downtown Detroit.