Detroit, October 16, 2025
News Summary
Detroit is taking notable strides in traffic safety with the installation of the first four-way stoplight and the launch of the SMART MODES initiative. The innovative online dashboard provides real-time traffic data and safety information to residents. Additionally, the upcoming I-375 Reconnecting Communities Project aims to enhance connectivity and safety for neglected neighborhoods. With these efforts, Detroit is committed to improving the safety of its roadways and fostering community connection.
Detroit is marking its place in traffic history with two significant milestones affecting the safety and flow of its roadways. On October 15, 1920, the city installed the first-ever four-way stoplight at the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Michigan Avenue, revolutionizing traffic management and setting a global standard for intersections. Fast forward to June 2025, when Detroit launched an innovative online dashboard as part of its SMART MODES initiative, aiming to enhance traffic safety through real-time data and analytics.
The innovative SMART MODES initiative, which stands for Mobility Optimization through Data for Equity and Safety, introduced the user-friendly dashboard that allows residents and visitors to explore current traffic safety conditions. Users can access historical accident statistics and information on traffic violations such as running red lights, speeding, and jaywalking. Additionally, the dashboard provides insights into trends within specific neighborhoods, an essential tool for understanding and improving local traffic safety.
Data highlights from the 2022 Streets for People report reveal that Detroit had a troubling record in traffic safety, with 28.71 deaths per 100,000 people and 6.16 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 people in 2020. These figures ranked the city second and third among U.S. cities with populations exceeding 500,000, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced traffic safety measures.
Adding to Detroit’s traffic safety initiatives, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is set to commence the I-375 Reconnecting Communities Project. Construction is expected to begin in Fall 2025, converting I-375 into a boulevard that re-establishes connections for neighborhoods that have historically been divided, particularly impacting the African American communities of Black Bottom and Paradise Valley.
The initial construction will focus on storm sewer outfall south of Jefferson Avenue, which will affect both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Major construction phases are scheduled to begin in 2026, leading to the closure of I-375 in both directions until the project’s completion in 2029. MDOT is committed to designing the boulevard based on community feedback to improve the overall safety of cyclists and pedestrians by reducing lane widths.
By incorporating community input, MDOT is aiming to address concerns surrounding traffic flow and regional connectivity to downtown Detroit. Local residents have expressed an understanding of the short-term disruptions the project might cause but are hopeful for the long-term benefits of reconnecting their communities.
To discuss the impact of the I-375 Reconnecting Communities Project, a public meeting is scheduled for Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Eastern, located at 3434 Russell St., Detroit, MI 48207. This meeting provides a platform for residents to voice their opinions and gain insights about the project.
In conclusion, the installation of the first four-way stoplight in Detroit and the launch of the SMART MODES initiative represent significant steps toward improving traffic safety in the Motor City. With ongoing projects like the I-375 redevelopment aimed at reconnecting communities, Detroit is actively working towards safer streets for all its residents.
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Additional Resources
- WILX: World’s First Four-Way Stoplight Installed in Detroit
- ClickOnDetroit: New Detroit Dashboard Offers Real-Time Traffic Data
- WXYZ: I-375 Project to Reconnect Detroit Communities
- Detroit News: Detroit Traffic Safety Analysis
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
