City Commission enacts Woodward Avenue parking restrictions to improve local traffic

The Multi-Modal Board of the City of Birmingham, Michigan, convened on March 6, 2025, to discuss key transportation and parking initiatives aimed at enhancing community accessibility and safety. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts between city officials and local businesses, showcasing a proactive approach to addressing citizen concerns.

The session commenced with commendations for the city’s recent initiatives, particularly regarding the management of Woodward Avenue. Board members expressed satisfaction with the practical solutions implemented to alleviate previous complaints from residents. One member praised the city’s efforts, stating, “This is a 5-star winner experience in terms of how government should work for the citizens.” The discussion emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making, noting a significant reduction in complaints and parking violations as a result of these measures.

Following this, a motion was made to permanently enact parking restrictions along Woodward Avenue. The proposed changes include 15-minute parking from 7 AM to 6 PM on Fridays through Sundays for specific segments of Southbound Woodward, as well as additional 15-minute parking from 7 PM to 10 PM for Northbound Woodward. The motion also included maintaining existing 30-minute parking regulations. The board unanimously approved the motion, reflecting strong support for the new parking strategy.

The meeting then transitioned to unfinished business concerning the Maple and Willets Road project. Board members reviewed previous recommendations made to the city commission regarding improvements on Willets Street and Bay Street. Melissa provided background information, while Julie presented detailed exhibits related to the project. The board's previous recommendation had been discussed in the city commission meeting in February, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance the multimodal transportation framework in Birmingham.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and parking solutions, with a clear focus on community engagement and data utilization. The board plans to continue its work on these initiatives, aiming to foster a more accessible and efficient urban environment for all residents.