Detroit’s People Mover: Reimagining Transit for a City on the Move

Detroit is weighing a critical decision about the future of its iconic yet aging People Mover, a move that could reshape how residents and visitors navigate the downtown area. On October 18, the Detroit Transportation Corporation (DTC) issued a request for proposals (RFP) to assess both immediate upgrades to the 37-year-old elevated train system and possibilities for long-term expansion. This process, now closed as of November 15, is poised to determine the next steps for this unique transportation system, with the DTC board expected to approve a vendor recommendation this week. Once approved, the study will begin in early 2025, aiming for completion within the year. The People Mover has long been a symbol of Detroit’s ambition. Opening in 1987, it offered a glimpse of what transit innovation could mean for the city. Today, however, its limitations are glaring. The 2.9-mile single-lane loop has been criticized for its one-directional route and limited reach. With Detroit’s downtown and surrounding neighborhoods evolving rapidly, the People Mover’s current design feels increasingly disconnected from the city’s needs. The upcoming Downtown Mobility Study, funded by an $800,000 Michigan Department of Transportation grant, will analyze ways to modernize the People Mover. This includes exploring improvements to...