Detroit showcases green transit wins at annual conference

Detroit’s efforts to improve non-motorized transit were highlighted at this week’s Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals (APBP) Annual Conference, where local and national experts discussed the city’s evolving infrastructure.

Since adopting a non-motorized plan in 2010, Detroit has focused on adding bike lanes and cycle tracks as part of broader efforts to make streets safer and more accessible.

“It’s been a big difference,” said Michael Darga, a partner at Detroit-based engineering firm Giffels Webster. “Even in the Motor City, we have like 30% of our population without a car, so we have to look at options.”

Listen: Detroit showcases green transit wins at annual conference

Key projects include the Dequindre Cut, Joe Louis Greenway and bike lanes on streets like Jefferson, Cass and Livernois.

“The bike lanes in Jefferson are just their first pass,” Darga said. “But it’s infrastructure that can be built on over the years.”

The concept of “road diets” was a central topic at the conference, referring to the practice of reducing vehicle lanes to provide more space for pedestrians and cyclists.

“We’re just reducing the amount of active lanes without harming auto traffic, but giving more options for people to get places,” Darga explained.

While the changes have been largely positive, Darga acknowledged some resistance from drivers.

“Anytime you’re taking something away from somebody, even if it’s not hurting their travel, it’s still perceived as ‘us versus them,’” he said.

The 2024 conference was held in Detroit and aimed to showcase the city’s balance between maintaining its car culture and expanding non-motorized transit options.

“We can still be the Motor City and provide non-motorized options for pedestrians and cyclists,” Darga said.