ROYAL OAK, Mich. – Royal Oak is looking to change 11 Mile Road between Woodward and Stephenson Highway.
The number of lanes could be altered, potentially replaced with bike lanes, street parking or green space. Bike lanes have been a hot topic in neighboring communities like Ferndale and Madison Heights.
The traffic committee will see the results of a traffic study and vote on the recommendation to change 11 Mile. There is space for public comment on Tuesday because the details are still being worked out.
Currently, there are two lanes in each direction. The city proposes one lane in each direction with a center turning lane. However, the new features are still up for debate. They could include bike lanes stretching from Fourth Street all the way to Stephenson Highway.
Cyclists welcome the change, stating that the road needs to be shared.
“It’s hit or miss,” said a bicyclist. “Certain roads with a curve I’ll avoid because there’s no place to get off the road if someone wants to push you off.”
City engineers report that 14,000 drivers use that stretch of 11 Mile every day. Many drivers expressed concerns about losing lanes.
“I’m just wondering about the trade off,” said one resident. “Is it really worth it? Because it leads to congestion.”
“I would be fine with it, personally, but I think right now with the congestion that 11 Mile has, now would not be a great time with 696 being a mess,” said a driver.
“I think it’s a waste of money and a waste of space,” said one resident regarding the bike lanes.
In addition to bike lanes, the city is also considering adding green space or street parking along 11 Mile. The project is budgeted for about $9 million, with work expected to start in 2027.
On May 27 at 6:30 p.m., residents can share their thoughts on the future of 11 Mile at Royal Oak City Hall.
