A public survey regarding the design of the Sunset and Newport Sidewalk was recently conducted. The results of that survey (PDF) are now available.
Why is this project being done?
Filling gaps in the sidewalk system is consistent with both Ann Arbor's
Moving Together Towards Vision Zero transportation plan and Complete Streets Policy. Providing sidewalks where they currently do not exist can:
- Improve pedestrian safety
- Encourage active transportation and community health
- Provide a continuous user experience
- Provide more transportation options
- Eliminate the practice of walking along the road and across traffic
Sidewalk gaps throughout Ann Arbor were prioritized for completion based on a system of safety, proximity to pedestrian destinations, roadway classification adjacent to the existing sidewalk gap, resident requests, and other related criteria. For more information, visit the
New Sidewalk FAQ webpage.
What does this project include?
This project will complete the sidewalk gap that exists along the east side of Newport Road from Down Up Circle to Sunset Road, and the north side of Sunset Road from Newport Road to the Brooks Street intersection*. Once this project is completed, a continuous segment of sidewalk will exist from Bird Hills Nature Area (with a crosswalk at Down Up Circle to the sidewalk on the west side of Newport Road) to the Sunset Brooks Nature Area & Trail. This will also improve safety for pedestrians crossing from Wines Elementary School and Forsythe Middle School to areas east of Newport Road and/or north of M-14.
*Sidewalk gaps on Brooks Street are planned to be filled in 2023 in conjunction with a watermain and resurfacing project on Brooks.
Funding Sources
- Surface Transportation Program-Urban (STP-U) Funding (Federal funds)
- City of Ann Arbor New Sidewalk Millage
Possible impacts to existing conditions, residents, and property owners
During the design phase of this project, public input will help the project team understand the concerns and interests of adjacent property owners and the general public. The sidewalk alignment will be designed to minimize disruption to the surrounding area. In some areas, trees will need to be removed and grading easements will be requested from affected property owners. The reconstruction of some driveways will be necessary as a part of the project. The project team will work with individual property owners to mitigate impacts to the extent possible.
Timeline
This project is scheduled for construction in the Spring/Summer of 2022.
Project material
Aug. 11, 2021 public meeting
