For Immediate Release
A Vision for a More Connected Livingston County: Building a Future of Accessible and Sustainable Transportation
Livingston County, MI – As Livingston County looks to the future, the need for a more connected, accessible, and sustainable transportation system is clearer than ever. Recent developments in public transportation, including the revitalization of the LETS bus service, the success of the new ride-booking app, and an expanding regional network with the Michigan Flyer, highlight the community’s commitment to progress. However, significant work remains to ensure all residents—whether they’re commuting, running errands, or heading to work—have easy and equitable access to safe, reliable transportation options.
At the heart of these efforts is LETS, which has seen ridership bounce back to pre-COVID levels, signaling growing demand for better mobility options in the county. Thanks to innovations like the LETSGo ride-booking app, passengers are able to schedule trips with ease, further demonstrating the community’s desire for a seamless, user-friendly system. These positive strides represent a strong foundation, but challenges remain, particularly as Livingston County continues to grow.
We’re seeing gradual strides in transportation, but this is only the beginning. There is still work to be done—especially when it comes to expanding our services to meet the needs of a diverse, growing community. We need to ensure that our transportation system isn’t just convenient for some but accessible to all.
While progress continues on the ground, Livingston County is also building connections on a regional level. The expansion of service with Michigan Flyer buses, connecting Livingston to key hubs such as Detroit and Ann Arbor, exemplifies the growing integration of local, regional, and even statewide transit options. This is a critical development for a county that has historically been underserved in terms of broader public transit options.
In addition to transit, improvements are being made to the county’s non-motorized infrastructure. New trails and enhanced walkways are creating opportunities for active mobility, but much more needs to be done. There is a significant call for additional bike lanes, completed sidewalks, and infrastructure that supports those who choose to walk or bike. Active transportation is a vital piece of the puzzle, and making these improvements will not only foster healthier communities but will also support more sustainable travel options.
As Livingston County works toward these ambitious transportation goals, collaboration is key. Achieving success will require working together across diverse political and community groups, from local government to business leaders to everyday residents. The county has long had a reputation for being a fiscally conservative region, but that doesn’t mean transportation innovation is out of reach. By coming together to prioritize investment in sustainable transportation, we can ensure that all of Livingston’s residents have the mobility options they need, while minimizing the burden on taxpayers.
Building a transportation system that works for everyone is a challenge we must tackle together. The county’s achievements in the past have shown what we can accomplish when we unite toward a common goal. We have an opportunity here to shape the future of Livingston County, making it a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable place to live, work, and play for all.
To celebrate the progress made and begin a broader community conversation about future transportation improvements, the Livingston County Transportation Coalition invites you to join the Fourth Annual Livingston County Rosa Parks Transit Equity Day Breakfast and Community Conversation. This important event will bring together residents, business leaders, transportation advocates, and policymakers to discuss how we can create a future where public transportation is available, accessible, and equitable for all.
Event Details:
When: February 4, 2025, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Where: Cleary University, 3750 Cleary Dr, Howell, MI 48843
RSVP: https://forms.office.com/r/Mj3KQq3hq5
We could not run this event without the wonderful support from our great sponsors: Motorcoach level: Mike Levine and Cleary University, Transit-Sprinter Van level: GoLivCo – Horal Family Foundation, Friends of the LakeLands Trail, Explore Brighton Howell Area, Church and Society of First United Methodist Church of Brighton and Whitmore Lake, and Livingston Diversity Council, and the Minivan level: Sierra Club Crossroads Group, The Arc Livingston, Torch 180, Howell Area Chamber of Commerce, Hartland Chamber of Commerce, and Lee Burton and Roberta Shaw Reeves. We are extremely grateful to our sponsors!
The Transportation Coalition encourages anyone interested in the future of transportation in Livingston County to attend and be part of the conversation. Together, we can ensure a future where public transportation is a tool for connection, opportunity, and sustainability.
For more information, please contact:
Mark L. Hymes
Chair – Livingston County Rosa Parks Planning Committee
Livingston County Transportation Coalition
734-889-9670
mark@dnwml.org
MoveLivCo.org
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Livingston County Transportation Coalition works to promote transportation options that connect our communities, reduce traffic congestion, and foster sustainable mobility for all residents.
