Our Transportation Position Statement
Kristie Profit
July 27, 2007
The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce believes that the Ann
Arbor area business community is best served by a comprehensive
transportation solution that recognizes the role of transportation
as a tool of economic development. The success of our
business community requires more transportation options, improved
level of service and better solutions to efficiently transport
labor and product.
Michigan is suffering from a severe deterioration of its
transportation infrastructure. Maintenance is insufficient to
meet the deteriorating condition. Modes of transportation are
limited and they are not adequately connected to make them
efficient for users. Operational and maintenance costs are
not adequately assigned to users to meet current requirements.
The following are components of a comprehensive transportation
solution we believe must be recognized:
- A comprehensive public transportation system, including the
availability of adequate parking, is vital to our community’s
economic development and the overall quality of life of those
within the greater Ann Arbor area.
- Transportation modes, including public transportation, ride
sharing, rail, biking and walking, should be considered as a part
of a comprehensive transportation plan and must be logically and
efficiently connected to one another.
- Local commerce is a region-wide asset and concern with
workers and the overall business community benefiting from
transportation services beyond their own municipal boundaries,
and therefore transportation options and solutions should not be
limited by municipal boundaries.
- The financial burden of an effective public transportation
system for the region should not be borne solely by Ann Arbor
taxpayers.
- Increasing development density and broadening the mix of uses
at transportation transfer points can achieve more effective
transportation solutions.
- Detroit Metropolitan and Willow Run Airports are among the
key economic assets of our community and vital to the success of
the business community. Business and individual users are
benefited by efficient and direct access to terminals.
- Improved transportation options between Ann Arbor and
Ypsilanti must be implemented and the resources to support this
must be found.
- AATA, UM, EMU, local school districts, MDOT and other
transportation agencies and providers must work together to
improve route and service options for users and these entities
must work cooperatively to lower their fixed costs.
- Transportation systems must be maintained for quality and
cleanliness to properly serve the image and reputation the
business community needs to compete.
- Plans for future business park and residential developments
being considered by local authorities should incorporate easy,
commuter-friendly, access to public transportation.
