Pontiac, MI - Oakland County has created a Transit Division in its Economic Development Department laying the foundation for improving and expanding transit options throughout the county.
The Board of Commissioners approved County Executive Dave Coulter's request to create three positions in the new division – a manager and two transit planners – to oversee the implementation of the countywide transportation millage approved by voters in the November general election.
"Now that the voters have agreed that reliable and accessible public transportation is a critical necessity, we're working on creating a seamless system of transportation that meets the needs of all Oakland County residents," Coulter said. "The task before us now is to work with residents, businesses, organizations, local leaders and transit providers to improve and expand transit across the county."
The county will develop plans in 2023 for expanding transit services in all parts of the county, securing more state and federal funds to support transit services, and long-term capital improvements that contribute to accessibility for our residents. To ensure these plans meet the needs of residents, businesses, and communities, the county will provide opportunities for people to provide feedback and suggestions for new transportation services. The timeline for expansions will vary depending on the availability of vehicles and drivers.
Oakland County's four current transit providers - SMART, North Oakland Transportation Authority (NOTA), Western Oakland Transportation Authority (WOTA), and the Older Persons' Commission (OPC) – are making recommendations on immediate improvements and expansions they can make to local services and identifying issues of common concern. For example, the providers want to work together to secure more vehicles and develop a common scheduling system.
In the meantime, county administration is working with SMART, NOTA, WOTA, and OPC to maintain current transportation services. To receive regular updates, please join the Oakland Transit community here.