Detroit Transit: Robert Cramer on the People Mover, Fare-Free Service, and Urban Mobility
1Description
When most people think of Detroit, they think cars. But behind the Motor City moniker is a layered, multi-agency public transit system—and Robert Cramer is helping connect the dots.
As Executive Director of Transit for the City of Detroit, Cramer leads both DDOT and Detroit Transportation Corporation, operator of the iconic elevated People Mover. In this episode, Paul Comfort joins Robert for a ride downtown and a deep dive into Detroit’s evolving mobility story.
You'll hear how:
- The People Mover went fare-free—and what happened next
- Detroit is coordinating between suburban, city, and regional agencies
- Transit plays a role in the city's ongoing revitalization
- Cramer’s planning background shaped his vision for service, connectivity, and rider experience
- Plus: the story behind Detroit’s international connections with Canada, sports district access, and what it takes to lead transit in the heart of America’s car capital.
Credits:
Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo
Creator, Host, + Producer: Paul Comfort
Executive Producer: Julie Gates
Producer + Newsletter Editor: Chris O'Keeffe
Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin
Special thanks to:
Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye
Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com
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