A Passenger Train Could Connect Michigan Like Never Before

If you’ve ever driven up north during the summer and thought, “I really wish there was a better way,” well, one might actually be coming.

Anyone who’s made that trip knows the drill. Traffic gets nasty fast, especially during a holiday weekend. One slowdown turns into a full stop, and before you know it, you’re sitting in traffic pulling your freaking hair out.

Now, Michigan is at least exploring another option.

According to WDIV, the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities is working on something called the North and South Rail project. The idea is a passenger train that would connect southeast Michigan, mid Michigan, and the northwest Lower Peninsula, including places like Traverse City.

What the North and South Rail Project Is Studying

Before you get too excited, this is still very much in the planning phase. No trains are rolling tomorrow, and no tickets are on sale. What’s actually happening right now is a major study looking at travel patterns, possible routes, ridership, and how expensive this would really be.

See Also: Four Genesee County Railroad Crossings Are Officially on the Fix List

How Michigan Residents Can Share Their Input

Here’s the part where your opinion really matters.

Groundwork is asking for public input through a new survey. They want to know where you’d actually travel, how often you’d use a train, and if you’d realistically choose it over driving.

They’ve also put together a website with maps, background info, and updates so you can see what’s being talked about and what’s still up in the air.

This is potentially what it would look like.

I love the idea of taking a train. I just don’t know if I’d choose it over driving unless it was a holiday weekend. When I’m traveling around Michigan, once I get where I’m going, I want my own wheels.