SEMCOG’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) is a competitive program that distributes approximately $10 million in federal funding to local transportation projects each fiscal year. Eligible projects include shared-use path and sidewalk modernization, pedestrian safety improvements, new sidewalks, and Complete Streets amenities that increase usability.
A ceremonial check presentation was made to city leaders at the Madison Heights City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 26 to celebrate this project.
"These improvements are focused on locations where people are already walking, accessing transit, visiting local businesses, and traveling to school but where safe crossing options and speed management tools have been very limited," said Corey K. Haines, Mayor, City of Madison Heights. "By slowing traffic and improving visibility and enhancing safety, these projects move us closer to our goal of reducing traffic accidents and creating safer, more comfortable streets for residents of all ages and abilities," said Haines.
"We were guided by the Southeast Oakland County Safety Action Plan, Madison Heights Vision Zero Resolution, the Madison Heights Master Plan, the High Injury Network Map, and other plans and policies to select locations that we think could reduce the impact of crashes, especially those who are outside of a vehicle, the most vulnerable users of the road," said Matt Lonnerstater, City Planner, City of Madison Heights. "These safety improvements act as a visual cue, it says, 'Hey! This is a neighborhood, there are people who live here, walk here, ride their bikes here, you have to slow down.'" said Lonnerstater.
“A core function of SEMCOG is the administration of transportation funding, including the Transportation Alternative Program," said Kevin Vettraino, Planning Director, SEMCOG. "Whenever we see good projects like this one, we want to make sure there are dollars available. We want get out to communities and share the importance of these funds because they are going to impact residents across the region and cities and communities like Madison Heights," said Vettraino.
Project highlights
Installation of Four Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) systems and ramps/crosswalks
Locations: Two on Concord Drive, E. Whitcomb Avenue, and E 11 Mile Road
Two mid-block mini traffic circles
Locations: Wolverine Street between 11 Mile and Lincoln
Traffic calming and access management techniques to make travel safe and efficient for all transportation system users
Enhancement of a safe, efficient non-motorized pathway system linking to various land uses throughout the city and giving residents choices about their modes of travel
Crosswalks and ramps to ensure compliance with ADA standards
View the Presentation from the January 26th 2026 City Council Meeting