To address mobility, safety, and connectivity issues in the downtown area, the City of Ann Arbor and the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority converted First and Ashley Streets from one-way to two-way roads and implemented one of Michigan’s first two-way protected bike lanes on William Street. Wade Trim provided design and construction services for both projects.

Along with the traffic lane reconfiguration on the First and Ashley Conversion project, stormwater management, bikeway, water main rehabilitation, curb and gutter placement, parking, bike lane widths, streetscape, lighting, signal, and turn movement adjustments were completed on First Street. Improvements to Ashley Street included streetscape, curb and gutter placement, parking, lighting, and signal improvements. In addition, Wade Trim facilitated permitting with MDOT. The First Avenue Bikeway was recognized as the 7th most impactful bikeway in the United States in 2020.

The City’s first two-way protected bike lane was implemented on William Street. Located between First and State Streets, the William Street Bikeway is separated from the adjacent motor vehicle lane by a buffer. The route improves the safety and comfort of residents, workers, and visitors of all abilities; strengthens businesses; increases connections; and promotes green design.

SmithGroup led the projects with Wade Trim support. The team assisted the DDA and the City in public engagement, study, evaluation, and design. Key elements included a mobility review of curb and gutter placement, parking, bike lane widths and turn movement adjustments, intersection control evaluation, and utility improvements. Travel lanes were reconfigured in some locations to minimize confusion and optimize multimodal operations. Public engagement during design and construction were key to successful implementation.

Award
ACEC/Michigan Engineering Honorable Conceptor Award, 2023