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Smart Growth America cultivates vibrant, sustainable communities with diverse living and transportation options, enhancing quality of life for all.

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Smart Growth America cultivates vibrant, sustainable communities with diverse living and transportation options, enhancing quality of life for all.

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Smart Growth America cultivates vibrant, sustainable communities with diverse living and transportation options, enhancing quality of life for all.

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Partnership in the News: DOT announces support of Detroit's M1-Rail

The Department of Transportation’s TIGER Program has announced $25 million in funding to build Detroit M-1 Rail’s 3.3-mile light rail that will run along Woodward Ave. The line will have eleven stations extending from the city’s Downtown to the New Center District. U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has come out...

By Peter Hirsch, January 28, 2013

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has come out with intense praise for the project stating, “This is going to be in the history books. No other city in America has had their business community come together and raise $100 million dollars.” Going on to say, “That is unprecedented.”

Secretary LaHood is referring to an incredible fundraising effort that includes donations from The Kresge Foundation, the Detroit Downtown Development Authority, and Detroit businesses and nonprofits.

The M-1 Rail hopes the new line will attract businesses to Woodward Ave. while creating a strong interest to live nearby. Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder said of the project, “There’s a strong case to say it’s been needed for 40 years.”