$1M From State Helps Fund Ann Arbor’s Treeline Trail With New Walking Bridge

Michigan officials have allocated $1 million toward a walking bridge project over North Main Street in Ann Arbor. The structure will serve as a key part of the Treeline trail system, as per Mlive.

State funds target the northern section, known as The Gateway. The money backs the city's push to lift walkers and cyclists above the traffic-filled street below. Construction costs keep mounting as materials grow pricier.

This cash arrives just as Ann Arbor expands its trail web. The city wants safe passage for walkers and bikers across one of its most packed roads. Thousands of cars zip by each day where the bridge will stand.

Michigan's investment points to a shift in how cities think about getting around. The funds add to Ann Arbor's existing pool of money for paths that skip the streets.

This bridge fills a big gap in Ann Arbor's plans to change how folks move through town. Once built, it will stitch together split sections of the trail. There won't be any more waiting at crosswalks or dodging cars.

The money means work can start right away. Planners will map out every bolt and beam needed to make this bridge real.

When finished, The Gateway will act like a thread, pulling together far-flung spots across Ann Arbor. Parks, shops, and homes will all be easier to get to.

By lifting people above the rush of cars, the bridge cuts the risk of crashes involving pedestrians and cars, or bikers and cars, to zero. Walkers and riders won't need to race across lanes of traffic anymore.

Engineers stand ready to start their work. After they finish the plans, builders will know exactly when they can break ground on this path.