University of Michigan Proposes Elevated Transit System to Connect Campuses
ANN ARBOR, MI – In an ambitious effort to improve connectivity across its Ann Arbor campuses, the University of Michigan is actively seeking partners for an automated and elevated transit system. The proposed platform is expected to span over three miles linking the Central, Medical, and North campuses.
Request for Qualifications Launched
On Friday, July 19, university officials expressed readiness to accept and assess responses to a request for qualifications (RFQ). The RFQ seeks prospective partners for the design, construction, and operation of the elevated transit system over the long term. The initiative is a component of the broader Campus Connector concept aimed at providing diverse transportation choices for community members moving between campuses.
Expressing optimism about the project, University of Michigan’s Chief Financial Officer Geoff Chatas said, “With the release of an RFQ, the University of Michigan continues to explore ways to develop a more cohesive and connected Ann Arbor campus. We look forward to assessing prospective partners as we work to build an equitable and sustainable system that serves our growing university.”
The Vision
University officials envision an automated transit system, without a driver, running on an elevated guideway. According to updates released on July 19, the university is prioritizing rubber-tire systems over railways to limit potential issues such as route alignment problems, noise, vibrations, and space constraints. The plans come as part of the Campus Plan 2050 initiative which aims to transform the Ann Arbor campus over a period of 25 years.
Benefits of the Elevated Transit System
This proposed transport system is expected to have a favorable impact on the university community and the city at large. Universities officials argue that the system will reduce traffic congestion and parking demands, boost local economic development opportunities, encourage greater interaction between the North and Central campuses and advance the university’s goals of carbon neutrality.
The System Infrastructure
The system is projected to include six passenger stations across the campus and approximately 3.5 miles of elevated guideway. The locations for the stations are to be Central Campus Transit Center on North University Avenue, the Medical campus, and North Campus locations including Green Road, Pierpont Commons, Hubbard and Murfin avenues and the North Campus Research Complex. The system’s capacity is expected to support up to 4,000 passengers per hour with room for increase over time.
Next Steps
After assessing responses to the request for qualifications, officials will create a shortlist of potential partners who will then be invited to submit requests for proposals. One proposal will be selected to move forward towards development. It’s important to note that, according to university officials, the project plan is subject to change and more information will be provided as the project progresses.
This rendered plan represents one of the many steps the University of Michigan is taking to ensure future growth, connectivity, and sustainability on its campuses and impact positively on the larger community.
