Researchers at Wayne State University recently launched a pilot study of Detroit's ongoing M-1 Rail project. The researchers intend to establish baseline data on current conditions that can be compared with conditions following the M-1 Rail's completion.  

The research is being led by Rayman Mohamed, associate professor in the Department of Urban Studies and Planning.

"This is a comprehensive study. We will be investigating how socioeconomic characteristics, travel patterns, asthma occurrences, self-reported environmental conditions and real estate value changes before and after the M-1 Rail is operational," said Mohamed.

The research is being done in collaboration with Bengt Arnetz, formerly of Wayne State University, now at Michigan State University.

Researchers are currently surveying residents who live within a mile of the M-1 Rail project. Participants will report information on their travel patterns and vehicle mileage. Some will be provided with Fitbits to help researchers log their travel patterns.  
According to Mohamed, "We will know that the M-1 Rail Line is successful if it results in lower car usage than we would otherwise obtain, increases the use of public transportation by residents and improves environmental health conditions."

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering more than 380 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to more than 27,000 students.