Environment and Transportation Equity: 

Much of the travel between Cleveland and Detroit takes place on I-90 and I-75, despite the distance between the cities being ideal for intercity passenger rail service. Both cities have seen inequitable freeway expansions that have impacted Black and immigrant neighborhoods. Over half the area of downtown Detroit is covered by surface parking lots, and the lack of investment in public transportation alternatives has limited the potential for residents and the regional economy.  

Amtrak riders would be able to transfer to Cleveland’s RTA Light Rail System and Detroit’s SMART bus network, the QLine Streetcar, and the Detroit People Mover. 

Connections to Higher Education:  

The Chicago — Detroit/Pontiac Amtrak service would create new connections between major metropolitan cities, medium-sized cities, and colleges and universities. This would provide students, their families, faculty, and staff with frequent Amtrak service to avoid traffic between destinations and to enjoy greater productivity or relaxation while they travel.

Colleges and universities served by the corridor include Cleveland State University, Case Western University, John Carroll University, the University of Toledo, Lourdes University, Bowling Green State University, University of Detroit Mercy, Wayne State University, and University of Michigan – Dearborn.