SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, has announced awards of over $74 million in federal funds to road and transit agencies throughout the seven-county region as part of the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program for fiscal years 2024 through 2026.
Washtenaw County Road Commission was among the recipients and received $6.6 million for traffic signal optimization and interconnection and to install new roundabout
These improvements are typically accomplished through projects that reduce vehicle idling and traffic congestion. SEMCOG strives to ensure selected projects in Southeast Michigan both maximize air quality benefit and cost-effectiveness of available funding.
“By supporting transit service, reduced traffic congestion, and improved commuter choices, these investments will improve the quality of life throughout our region by making travel smoother and more efficient while also improving air quality,” said Amy O’Leary, executive director of SEMCOG, in a press release.
CMAQ, a federally-funded program, supports two goals: improving air quality and relieving congestion. SEMCOG administers the CMAQ program for Southeast Michigan by working with eligible road and transit agencies to develop projects which maximize air quality improvements.
Projects have been selected in each of SEMCOG’s seven counties. Initiatives include education and promotion of Rideshare and Ozone Action; expanded transit service; new, lower-emissions buses; traffic signal optimization; roundabouts; dedicated turn lanes; and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS).
Projects are awarded CMAQ funds based on criteria adopted by SEMCOG’s Regional Review Committee, which consists of local elected officials in Southeast Michigan.
