Ann Arbor · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ann Arbor public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Carey Street one-way conversion and Division bikeway extension
Council approved making Carey Street one-way (downhill only), removing the uphill turn onto the Broadway Bridge. Staff cited limited sight lines, near-misses at pedestrian crossings and 11 illegal movements in two hours of video. Critics worry about detours, hospital commuters and the pending Broadway Bridge redesign.
Transit updates and federal funding
The Ride's CEO reported a stable temporary downtown terminal, a ratified union contract, and the release of a $25 million low-emissions bus grant stuck in federal delay.
DDA capital project construction
Ann Street and Fourth Avenue construction is moving forward, along with wayfinding signage connecting the Ann and Ashley areas. Staff also explained how the DDA manages a project from design through construction.
North Main Street redesign
The DDA is refining designs for the North Main Street corridor based on community charettes held in March and May. The project will reshape a major gateway into downtown.
Fourth Avenue Construction and Summer Event Pauses
The city will put $2,188,032 into a cost-share agreement with the DDA to rebuild Fourth Avenue downtown.
Bike Lane Maintenance and Enforcement
A resident told the council the complaint-driven system for clearing cars and carts out of bike lanes isn't working and asked for random spot checks and an education campaign.
Blake Transit Center Relocation
AAATA will temporarily shift bus boarding and transfers to Fifth Avenue and Washington starting May 5 while Fourth Avenue closes for construction supporting affordable housing at 350 S. Fifth.
Nixon Road Public Art Opportunity Lost
The Nixon Road project was scaled back from a full reconstruction with a roundabout to simple resurfacing, eliminating the planned public art spot. Commissioners asked staff to see if art could still work at nearby roundabouts before officially dropping it.
Restoration of two-way traffic on Ingalls and Kingsley
Ingalls and Kingsley streets go back to two-way traffic, changing how drivers navigate near the hospital area.
2027 Street and Sidewalk Millage Elections
Council voted to ask voters next year to approve charter amendments for a 2027 street, bridge and sidewalk repair millage and a new sidewalk construction millage. If voters pass them, your roads and sidewalks get a dedicated funding stream.
Washtenaw/Huron road reconfiguration (CA-10)
Council supported MDOT's repaving plan for East Huron/Washtenaw, which includes a road diet with bus lanes on segments two and three — a safety win for pedestrians and transit riders.
Miller Road construction completion
Councilmember Cornell announced final Miller Road construction through the end of the month — speed tables, pedestrian islands, crosswalks and bus stop improvements — with brief lane closures.
South Barton Pedestrian Bridge Replacement
Council authorized applying for a state DNR grant to replace the South Barton pedestrian bridge.
Ann Street Curb Cut Closure at 201 N Main Street
Council declared the curb cut at the Main Party Store a traffic hazard and approved closing it as part of the Ann Street improvements. Supporters cited chronic cars crossing sidewalks; the owner's representative called it an unfair takings.
Transportation Commission Meeting Access
A resident criticized the Transportation Commission's Zoom-only meeting schedule; Councilmember Briggs said the commission is considering returning to some in-person meetings.