Study reveals road diet can ease traffic congestion

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the findings of a comprehensive study evaluating a proposed road diet along Woodward Avenue, spanning from Birmingham to Royal Oak. Following guidelines set by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the study assessed traffic patterns and infrastructure needs over a 14-mile stretch.

The analysis revealed that the existing eight-lane divided boulevard is overbuilt for current traffic volumes, leading to a recommendation to reduce the lanes to a six-lane divided boulevard. This adjustment is projected to accommodate traffic needs through 2044, indicating excess capacity even in future scenarios.

Key recommendations from the study included the addition of a southbound to northbound U-turn at Maple, aimed at alleviating significant traffic backups caused by the current routing, which requires drivers to travel further south to turn around. This proposed U-turn would split the existing traffic flow, improving efficiency and reducing congestion.

Additionally, the study suggested minor mitigation measures, such as optimizing signal timing, but overall, the findings were more favorable than initially anticipated. The team expressed surprise at the positive results, which countered their initial skepticism.

The next steps involve presenting the findings to MDOT for review and feedback, following a resolution already passed by the city commission. This submission is a crucial part of the process, akin to a road permit, and will initiate further discussions on the proposed changes.