The Detroit MODES (Mobility Optimization through Data for Equity and Safety) project is a transformative initiative designed to enhance road safety and address transportation equity in Detroit, particularly within Historically Disadvantaged Communities (HDCs). Funded by a $2 million SMART grant from the USDOT, the project aims to reduce traffic fatalities and improve safety through the deployment of smart intersection technologies. These technologies are now implemented at 19 strategic locations and counting across the city, leveraging existing traffic networks to collect and analyze real-time data on traffic patterns and potential hazards.

Central to the Detroit MODES project is the development of a sophisticated dashboard tool. This tool will utilize the collected data to provide real-time alerts about traffic incidents and near-misses, enabling city officials to respond swiftly to emerging safety issues. The dashboard will also facilitate the identification of the causes behind vehicle crashes, allowing for targeted and effective roadway safety interventions. 

SMART MODES Dashboard Now Live

The Detroit SMART MODES dashboard is officially live! This powerful new tool uses real-time data to detect near-misses and support smarter, safer street design across the city. Developed in collaboration with leading tech partners and community stakeholders, the dashboard marks a major step forward in making Detroit’s mobility system more connected and people-centered.

Explore the dashboard: https://home.urbanlogiq.us/public/detroit-hub

By streamlining the analysis and intervention process, Detroit MODES aims to significantly reduce the time required to address traffic safety issues, ultimately saving lives and enhancing the overall efficiency of the city's transportation system.

According to the 2022 Streets for People: Detroit Comprehensive Safety Action Plan, in 2020, Detroit had 28.71 deaths per 100,000 people and 6.16 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 people, which ranks second and third, respectively, for US cities with at least a 500,000 population. 

The City of Detroit partnered with Miovision to modernize its aging traffic infrastructure, enhancing road safety and efficiency for all commuters. By leveraging real-time data and advanced technology, the project has significantly reduced signal issues, travel times, and emergency response delays, creating a smarter and safer transportation network.

The map below illustrates the locations MioVision technology is placed to gather traffic safety data. 

Additional insights aim to improve safety for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. By analyzing data on near-misses, red-light violations and other risk factors, the city aims to implement targeted solutions to help prevent crashes before they occur.

Current Detroit SMART MODES Intersections:

● 2453 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208
● 2567 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208
● 2211 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48207
● 16450 E Warren Ave, Detroit, MI 48224
● 14401 Harper Ave, Detroit, MI 48224
● 11600 Kelly Rd, Detroit, MI 48224
● 12331 Hayes St, Detroit, MI 48205
● 625 McDougall St, Detroit, MI 48207
● 500 Mt Elliott St, Detroit, MI 48207
● 10601 Outer Dr E, Detroit, MI 48224
● 8683 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206
● 4569 Trumbull St, Detroit, MI 48208
● 9220 Dexter Ave, Detroit, MI 48206
● 1926 Virginia Park St, Detroit, MI 48206
● 11001 E 7 Mile Rd, Detroit, MI 48234
● 14400 Seven Mile E, Detroit, MI 48205
● 5669 W Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
● 4415 W Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
● 4202 W Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209

Milestones from Phase One:

In the first stage of the initiative, key milestones were achieved to improve intersection safety while protecting traveler privacy by avoiding the use of personally identifiable information. These included:

• Enhanced traffic monitoring and real-time incident detection through existing infrastructure and sensor technology to help reduce disruptions.
• A new data platform providing officials with historical and real-time insights for proactive safety and traffic management.
• Cost-effective use of existing infrastructure, avoiding additional equipment needs.
• Partnerships with Miovision, UrbanLogiq and Derq to integrate advanced traffic safety solutions on a unified platform without new hardware.
• Installation of a dedicated server to manage data from 19 intersections for faster incident response.
• Development of APIs to improve data sharing and transparency between the city and partners.

The Detroit MODES project is built on a foundation of rigorous data integration and analysis. By harnessing advanced traffic safety solutions, Detroit MODES will create a comprehensive view of traffic dynamics across the city. This integrated approach not only supports immediate safety enhancements but also informs long-term urban planning and infrastructure development. As a result, the project is set to position Detroit as a leader in smart city innovation, showcasing how cutting-edge technology can be leveraged to improve road safety and promote equitable transportation solutions for all residents.

Contact