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Wayne county voters approve millage for expanded public transit

August 5, 2026

Wayne County voters overwhelmingly approved a transit millage with 67% support, bringing the county in line with Oakland and Macomb counties by eliminating opt-out gaps in the regional SMART transportation system. The measure will renew existing public transportation services while adding 17 communities that had previously opted out, requiring residents in those areas to pay a new tax of . 98 mills (approximately $8 monthly for a $100,000 home).

Who is affected

  • Residents of Wayne County's 17 communities previously opted out of SMART (who will pay a new tax)
  • Residents of 26 municipalities already in the SMART system
  • People without cars, seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and students
  • Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) riders and users
  • SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation)
  • Smaller transit providers like Nankin Transit
  • Young professionals and families in the region
  • Businesses seeking workforce access
  • Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans and SMART CEO Tiffany Gunter

What action is being taken

  • Wayne County is levying a .98 mill tax starting in 2026 through 2035
  • The millage is replacing an expiring one
  • Revenue of approximately $57 million annually is being distributed to Wayne County, SMART, DDOT, and other transit providers
  • SMART is rolling out the expansion in phases guided by community needs

Why it matters

  • This millage matters because it eliminates gaps in regional transit coverage, ensuring continuous service across Wayne County without opt-out zones. It provides critical mobility and independence for residents who cannot afford cars, are unable to drive, or have disabilities, enabling access to jobs, medical appointments, education, and daily activities. The unified regional transit system strengthens the workforce, attracts young professionals and families to the area, and supports economic growth. Additionally, it resolves years of contentious debate over regional public transportation fragmentation.

What's next

  • SMART will add eight new routes, five new route extensions, and on-demand service over approximately three years (dependent on acquiring new vehicles)
  • DDOT will use input from residents and stakeholders to guide spending of new revenue
  • The tax will begin with the 2026 tax year

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com