Design Concepts
Design concepts that show recommended alternative designs for Michigan Avenue are available below. Feedback received during Open Houses in January will be considered as we begin to develop preliminary engineering design plans.
View the January 2025 Design Concepts(PDF, 8MB)
Traffic Simulations
These video clips show how selected intersections along Michigan Avenue are expected to operate under the recommended alternative design during the afternoon peak hour starting at 4:45 p.m. The intersections selected were Michikal Street, Rose Street, and Portage Street.
Each clip represents at least one traffic signal “cycle,” where each traffic signal indication at the intersection is activated and the vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians complete their movements. The videos show an overhead view, highlighting vehicle movements, then a 3-dimensional view, showing interactions between vehicles, buses, pedestrians, and bicyclists, as well as more detailed on-street parking maneuvers. The videos operate at three times the normal speed to keep playback times reasonable.
The simulation findings predict that motorists on average will be driving about 50% slower with the proposed design compared to existing conditions during the afternoon peak hour. Reducing vehicular speeds is an important step towards improving safety and mobility for people walking, biking, taking the bus, or driving. Additionally, redistributing space previously dedicated to cars to improve sidewalks and bikeway facilities makes the corridor a more attractive destination.