Canton Township Reacts to Proposed Changes in Public Transit System Amid Community Concerns

Canton Township Faces Changes in Public Transit: A Community Debate

In Canton Township, local leaders are raising concerns about a proposed public transit bill that could reshape the way transportation is handled across Wayne County. Recently, the Michigan House of Representatives passed House Bill 6088, which aims to end a long-standing rule allowing some communities to opt out of the county’s regional public transportation system, known as SMART. This change could mean that all communities, even those that have not participated for decades, will have to contribute to and use this service.

The Background

Buckle in! There are currently 17 communities in Wayne County, including Northville, Plymouth, and Livonia, that do not take part in SMART. This proposal means that those communities would be included in the transit system by 2026, and residents would vote together on a transit millage that’s about 1 mill. But hold on – leaders in these communities aren’t just sitting back and letting this happen without voice or incentive. They’re stepping up to express their concerns.

What’s at Stake?

Livonia’s mayor, Maureen Miller Brosnan, shared her thoughts about why Livonia opted out of SMART years ago. She pointed out that the fixed-route system offered by SMART didn’t meet the actual needs of her community. “If we had opted in, we would be sending approximately $5.6 million a year to the system,” she stated, indicating that much of the city’s transportation relies on their own micro-transit program known as Liv&Go. This service caters primarily to seniors and people with disabilities, but it still falls short when it comes to longer trips, such as medical appointments outside the city.

Wants and Needs

Over in Canton Township, Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak is vocally backing the need for a robust public transportation system, but she has her reservations too. She emphasized that if Canton residents are going to be taxed to support SMART, they deserve to reap the benefits right back in their community. In her view, the past proposals, like the 2016 Regional Transit Authority millage, haven’t provided enough to warrant support. “There needs to be something in it for them to support a millage,” she said.

The concern is echoed by Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo, who describes Northville voters as savvy and diligent. “They need to see direct benefits; otherwise, they won’t back the plan,” he cautioned.

Accessibility and Economic Development

Supporters of the Bill argue that a unified transit system could enhance economic development and make transportation more accessible overall. They believe that a cohesive transit system could address the challenges posed by the current “patchwork” of services among communities of different sizes and needs. However, many city leaders are still unsure if the proposed system is tailored enough to match their local situations.

What’s Next?

The proposed Bill, having passed in the House, is now on its way to the Senate for further consideration. Community leaders are hoping that their voices will be heard during this process. As it stands, the potential inclusion in this collective transit system has both supporters and skeptics keeping a careful watch.

With the conversation heating up, only time will tell how this bill will affect communities like Canton Township, and whether transportation will enhance or complicate their already established services. Collectively, they’re aiming to make voices heard, ensuring any reforms suit their unique needs.