New SMART Route 492 Will Connect Detroit to Multiple Points in Oakland County

Starting Monday, SMART bus riders will be able to go 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 Rochester Hills on the new Route 492.

Voter approval of Oakland County’s transportation millage in 2022 made the new fixed route possible.

“This new route is another step toward providing convenient and reliable transportation options for our residents,” says Dave Coulter, executive of Oakland County. “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.”

The goal is to provide residents and visitors 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 International Marketplace.

“As we look forward to the launch of Route 492, we anticipate a positive ripple effect on the local economy,” says Dwight Ferrell, general manager of SMART. “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.-10 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays. For more information about Route 492 and SMART’s services, visit smartmovesus.org .

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