Detroit legislators back Wayne County transit millage

July 1, 2026

The Detroit City Council has officially endorsed a Wayne County transit millage that will appear on the August ballot, emphasizing its importance for vulnerable populations and economic equity. The ten-year millage would generate approximately $50 million annually countywide, with Detroit's portion of $7-10 million dedicated to improving the city's DDOT system that serves 85,000 daily riders. Despite backing from community organizations, unions, and business leaders, the measure faces opposition from some residents who filed a lawsuit citing concerns about transparency and cost.

Who is affected

Low-income residents, seniors, residents with disabilities, and essential workers in Detroit and Wayne County
22% of Detroit households without private vehicles
85,000 average daily DDOT riders
300,000 to 350,000 Wayne County residents in communities with limited or no public transit access
Detroit residents, who would see $7-10 million annually invested in DDOT
Homeowners in 17 communities voting on the millage
Veterans and the general public who would benefit from expanded services

What action is being taken

The Detroit City Council is formalizing its support for the transit millage through a resolution
A coalition of community organizations, labor unions, business leaders and advocacy groups is officially endorsing the millage
Voters in 17 communities are preparing to vote on the 10-year millage on August 4
A group of Wayne County residents has filed a lawsuit challenging the measure

Why it matters

The transit millage represents a matter of economic justice, racial justice, and disability justice, as inadequate regional transit access disproportionately burdens residents already facing systemic inequities in housing, employment, education and community participation. Reliable transportation serves as a critical tool for advancing economic opportunity, connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare services and other opportunities. The measure would help close service gaps for underserved communities and provide operational support to improve frequency, reliability, and regional connectivity for Detroit riders who depend on public transit as an essential mobility infrastructure.

What's next

The millage vote is scheduled for August 4, when voters in 17 communities including Detroit will decide on the measure.

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com