The Detroit SMART MODES dashboard, a groundbreaking initiative involving Michigan Mobility Fellow (MMF) Yonikka Tinsley and her team at the City of Detroit’s Office of Mobility Innovation, officially launched last month. This cutting-edge initiative, funded through a USDOT SMART Grant, aims to revolutionize safety in mobility by leveraging data innovation and fostering community collaboration.

The SMART MODES (Mobility Optimization through Data for Equity and Safety) project focuses on enhancing road safety and addressing transportation equity in historically disadvantaged communities in Detroit. This is a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive and safe mobility landscape for everyone. This powerful tool brings visibility to mobility data and fosters informed community dialogue about transportation issues.

During the press conference June 24, Tony Geara, Deputy Chief of the City of Detroit’s Office of Mobility Innovation and Director of Detroit SMART MODES,  discussed the key milestones from phase one that put residents’ safety first while ensuring their privacy and avoiding personal identifiable information. Yonikka played a pivotal role in driving this initiative forward, supporting and leading various internal and external functions crucial for the development and implementation of the SMART MODES dashboard. Her involvement highlights her commitment to creating safer and more equitable transportation options for all. 

Learn more about the Michigan Mobility Fellows Program and other innovative initiatives and join the conversation about the future of mobility in Michigan.