Opportunities to speak out on local transportation needs

From rails to bike trails, Southwest Michigan residents have a number of upcoming opportunities to let officials know about local transportation needs.

First the rails. MDOT invites the public to discuss when and how high-speed rail will become viable for passengers. It’s one question for which MDOT is seeking input. The state agency also wants to know the role of rail freight in the state’s economy.

There will be four state meetings to discuss the questions as MDOT collects information as required by the federal government as the agency crafts a Michigan state rail plan is expected to create a vision for how the state of Michigan manages and invests in rail infrastructure. People can learn about and comment on the rail plan by attending a meeting or by going to the State Rail Plan website.

The closest location to Southwest Michigan will be at the Grand Rapids Transportation Service Center 2660 Leonard St., NE Grand Rapids, Wednesday, Sept. 29,  4 to 7:30 p.m.

As for the trails, the Michigan section of United States Bicycle Route 35 is being developed by a Corridor Committee made up of representatives of the cities of South Haven,  Saint Joseph, Sault Ste. Marie, Petoskey, Traverse City, Manistee, Ludington, Muskegon and Holland. The work is being coordinated by the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission.

The bike route would run approximately 500 miles through Michigan — from New Buffalo to Sault Ste. Marie. In Southwest Michigan this route would connect New Buffalo, Bridgman, St. Joseph, Benton Harbor and South Haven.

A public hearing on the route is set for  from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 29 at Anchor Rooms A-B, Michigan Works, 499 W. Main St., Benton Harbor, Mich.  Planners hope to hear from municipal, county and state officials, community leaders, businesses, state and local bicycle clubs and bicycle enthusiasts.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Sources: Janet Foran, MDOT, and Suzann Flowers, Southwest Michigan Planning Commission