Can residential neighborhoods be spared commercial truck traffic?

July 23, 2025

Detroit Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero is working with Mayor Mike Duggan's administration to create an ordinance that would redirect commercial truck traffic away from residential neighborhoods in Southwest Detroit. The proposed measure follows recommendations from a 2024 report and aims to address serious health concerns, as Detroit has significantly higher asthma rates than the national average, with 16% of children affected. Medical experts and community organizations testified about the harmful effects of truck-related air pollution, noting that Southwest Detroit's position as an international commercial gateway has led to heavy truck traffic through residential areas.

Who is affected

Residents of Southwest Detroit neighborhoods exposed to truck traffic
Children in Detroit, who have asthma rates more than double the national average (16%)
Families living near freeways who experience higher asthma rates
Schools and parks in Southwest Detroit
Commercial truck drivers and industrial facilities in Southwest Detroit

What action is being taken

Council Member Santiago-Romero is working with Mayor Duggan's administration to draft an ordinance diverting truck traffic
The Trucks Off Our Street Coalition is advocating for City Council to protect residents
A 2024 report has identified issue routes where heavy truck traffic should be diverted
An ongoing health study focused on the Gordie Howe International Bridge is examining how proximity to freeways affects asthma rates

Why it matters

Detroit had the highest asthma hospitalization rate in the country last year
Wayne County is classified as a "nonattainment area" by the EPA for failing to meet federal air quality standards
Trucks emit diesel fumes and kick up toxic dust causing health problems including asthma and respiratory infections
Poor air quality contributes to premature births and amplifies respiratory infections
Industrial truck traffic poses safety issues and causes property damage in residential areas

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article, though Santiago-Romero aims to pass the new measures before the end of this year.

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com