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April 18, 2024, Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County transit options continue to expand with the launch of the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation’s (SMART) Route 492, which will enable commuters to travel seamlessly from the State Fair Transit Center in Detroit, through bustling business districts in Troy and Rochester, to the educational hub surrounding Oakland University.
Voters who overwhelmingly approved Oakland County’s transportation millage in 2022 made this new fixed route possible.
“This new route is another step toward providing convenient and reliable transportation options for our residents,” County Executive Dave Coulter said. “I’m thrilled to broaden access to educational and employment opportunities in all corners of the county and promote economic growth for our people and businesses.”
Route 492, which begins service Monday, will connect riders from the State Fair Transit Center in Detroit through Ferndale, Royal Oak, Clawson, Troy, and Rochester, all the way to Walton Boulevard across from Oakland University in Auburn Hills.
Residents and visitors alike will have enhanced access to key destinations and employment centers across Oakland County, such as educational, health and entertainment locations, as well as shopping and grocery stores. They include the Royal Oak Music Theater, Hampton Village Plaza, Downtown Rochester, Ascension Hospital, Troy Continuing Education, Rochester High School, Sylvan Glen Park, Meadowbrook Amphitheater and Nino Salvaggio.
"As we look forward to the launch of Route 492, we anticipate a positive ripple effect on the local economy," SMART General Manager Dwight Ferrell said. "Businesses in Auburn Hills, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, and Ferndale stand to gain from increased foot traffic and new consumers who will now have convenient access to their establishments—with no parking required. This route represents not just a means of transportation but also a catalyst for economic growth and community prosperity."
Route service hours will be from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays. For more information about Route 492 and SMART’s services, visit smartmovesus.org or call 866-962-5515.
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