Master's Project

Transit Oriented Development in Detroit (Initiated in 2009)

Project Status:
Past Project
Client Organization:
Detroit Department of Transportation
SNRE Faculty Advisor:
Beth Diamond
Master Students Involved in Project:

Allison Krueger

Angela Lee

Lauren DeSilva

Kim Seelye

Paul Mansoor

Contact Name:
Wesley King
Job Title:
Transit Planner
Contact Phone:
313-833-9602
Contact e-mail:
Project Location :
Detroit, MI
Summary of Project Idea:

The City of Detroit’s Department of Transportation (DDOT) will be working with stakeholders throughout the city to develop a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Plan for the Southeast Michigan Region. The size of the region covered may be determined by the group, at a minimum it will include the DDOT service area including expansions proposed in the 5-Year Plan and not going beyond the seven county Southeast Michigan Region. Goals: Identify strong transit corridors, for development of TOD plans incorporating strong sustainable transportation links between economic centers, and population. Strengthen bond between transportation and land-use while encouraging multi-modal green corridors. Review city master plans that encourage/promote transit investment and review zoning ordinances and recommend rezoning in areas with TOD potential. Include detailed plan for Woodward Light Rail from Jefferson to 8-Mile and Detroit to Ann Arbor Commuter Rail Line. Provide ideas for place-making within each transit hub or community art to promote a sense of community pride and activities within these locations that represent the neighborhood. Feel free to be as creative as possible, it is the hope of the DDOT to use this plan to develop a Transit-Oriented Strategic Action Committee (TODSAC) composed of stakeholders throughout the region.

SNRE Program Areas:
Environmental Policy and Planning
Behavior, Education, and Communication
Environmental Informatics
Environmental Justice
Sustainable Systems
Landscape Architecture