Pontiac breaks ground on new transit hub

The new Pontiac Transportation Center, which will be home to both a Greyhound bus and Amtrak train stop, will break ground in about two weeks.A groundbreaking ceremony was held last week for the new station, which is expected to be completed by next summer. The state is funding the entire $1.4 million cost, says Janet Foran, spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of Transportation.The building will have several green features, including a white roof to reflect the sun, and bioswales, natural collection points for rainwater, which then filter it through native plants instead of draining it into the sewer. Lighting will also include compact florescent bulbs.The actual work is expected to begin in about two weeks. “We hope to have a ribbon cutting next summer,” Foran says.The facility will be at 51000 Woodward Ave. and serve as a hub for mass transit, including Amtrak’s Wolverine service to Chicago and Greyhound’s eight daily routes through Pontiac. There is also a SMART bus stop within sight of the new facility.During the construction, passengers for a train or bus will either have to go online or to another facility to buy tickets. The previous transportation center was demolished in 2008.Source: Janet Foran, spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of TransportationWriter: Kristin Lukowski