Feedback: QLINE transformed Woodward corridor, benefits Detroit, region
The complex history of the QLINE makes it prone to misinterpretation, yet it’s important to understand both the vision and the value of this historic investment in Detroit.
The concept for a streetcar on Woodward — then called M1 Rail — was first proposed in 2008 as part of a landmark regional transit plan put forward by government and unanimously adopted by the Wayne, Oakland and Macomb county executives and the mayor of the City of Detroit.
Roger Penske, fresh off his successful stewardship of Super Bowl XL, was drafted to help bring the system to reality. Later that year the U.S. experienced a devastating financial crash, and it hit Detroit harder than anyone: The city was on the cusp of the largest municipal bankruptcy in American history. Rather than abandon the project, Penske led a group of philanthropic and business leaders to partner with the city to make a lasting commitment to instill confidence in a brighter future for Detroit.
This public-private partnership was a historic first, with civic leaders working hand-in-hand with the public sector, donating more than $150 million and thousands of hours of time because local government could not do it alone.
Fast forward to 2023: QLINE impact on the Woodward Corridor is undeniable. It has catalyzed nearly $10 billion in economic development, and connects residents, workers, and students to world-class healthcare, good jobs, and educational campuses. At a time when less than half of downtown workers have returned to offices, QLINE transports 2,300 people daily, free of charge, from all walks of life.
QLINE, operated by the nonprofit M1 Rail, is public transit, which requires public support for long-term sustainability. This is true for every transit system in the country. There was never any promise or illusion to the contrary. Utilizing a small portion of the hotel and liquor taxes to help fund essential transit functions for neighborhoods along Woodward, and for all Detroiters accessing Greater Downtown, is a wise investment.
While the goal of a modern, comprehensive, reliable regional transit system remains a work in progress, faster service, growing ridership, and continuing development along the Woodward corridor all demonstrate that QLINE’s future is bright.
Lisa NuszkowskiNuszkowski is the president of M1 Rail, the nonprofit operator of the QLINE
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: QLINE transformed Woodward corridor, benefits Detroit, region
