Nov. 18 – Virtual Public Hearings on SMART Plan
On Wednesday, November 18, SMART will host two Virtual Public Hearings. SMART is proposing service improvements for April 2021 and is looking for public input. SMART will be holding one in-person public meeting and two virtual public hearings, along with an opportunity for feedback via written and emailed options for those who are unable to attend either.
Following a 2 year system analysis, this is the second round of changes SMART has introduced since the fixed route SMART Path Plan Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA) was approved by the SMART Board of Directors this past March. Most of the service changes for this round are focused on improving routes in Wayne County. Details about the service changes and public input meetings can be found on www.smartbus.org.
”SMART is committed to improving mobility for people across our service area,” said Robert Cramer, Deputy General Manager of SMART.  “We have a plan in place to guide SMART through several phases of improvements over the next few years.  Yet, when it comes to getting the details right for each change, we seek public input to help guide our final design and implementation.  We look forward getting feedback again to ensure we identify any problems or concerns before service starts rolling in April next year.”
The Phase I changes focus on increasing frequency on existing routes, simplifying scheduling, and exploring microtransit service options.  For major route and service changes, SMART conducts hearings to give the public an opportunity to review the proposals and share their feedback.  In October, SMART made a few of the Phase I recommended changes and anticipates more service changes in June and September 2021 with corresponding public hearings for each.
Virtual Meeting
Two Zoom Meetings have been scheduled. The same link will be used for both meetings.
Wednesday, November 18, 2020 – 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM
https://smartbus.zoom.us/j/91873091930?pwd=eU5HM1pjeFAvYjI0Zi9xWmIwTTV6dz09
An interpreter for the hearing impaired will be made available if SMART is contacted seven (7) days prior to the public hearings. Comments will also be accepted by telephone via Michigan Relay: 711/866-962-5515 option #2.
Mail
Written comments should be addressed to “Public Hearing” and mailed to SMART Administrative Offices, 535 Griswold Street, Suite 600, Detroit, MI 48226.
Email
Comments may also be emailed to PublicHearing@smartbus.org