The second planning phase of the Northern Michigan passenger rail project has commenced, after receiving $2.3 million in federal and state funding. Now a study team will begin conducting research on the proposed route from Ann Arbor to Petoskey, Traverse City, and Cadillac. In order to determine the best ways to make the passenger train service operational.
Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities laid the foundation for the Northern Michigan passenger rail project. Starting with the initial phase in 2018, the group determined the feasibility of the passenger rail between Southeastern Michigan and Northeastern Michigan. Based on their findings, the passenger train service will attract 1.5 million riders a year. Additionally, it would also generate up to $100 million in annual revenue by 2040.
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Timeline for the Northern Michigan passenger rail project
Carolyn Ulstad, Groundwork’s program manager, said the technical aspects of the upcoming study would most likely begin early next year. This planning phase of the Michigan passenger rail project is set to be completed by summer 2024. Upon completing the planning phase, Ulstad said Groundwork anticipates that the passenger rail service would become operational by 2030.
This planning phase of the Michigan passenger rail will provide more details on all the necessary improvements and enhancements. In order to achieve this, some technical work will be done, which involves an analysis of the entire length of the rail. This will determine what segments can handle what weights and at what speeds. Furthermore, it will also provide details about the places where advanced signaling installations are needed, such as at road intersections.
Groundwork applied for funding from the state and the U.S. Department of Transportation(U.S DOT). However, progress on the Northern Michigan passenger rail came after Groundwork partnered with the Cadillac/Wexford Transit Authority. After their partnership, the group was successful in its second attempt at applying for U.S DOT’s $1.3 million grant. In addition, the state also provided $1 million for the second planning phase.
Groundwork’s transportation director, Jim Bruckbauer also spoke on the benefits of the Northern Michigan passenger rail project. Not only would it reduce cars on the highways, but it also provides a safe and environmentally-friendly means of travel. Bruckbauer further stated that the planning process will engage residents living in towns along the proposed route
