M-1 Rail is testing track for new Detroit streetcar

M-1 Rail last week began testing track on Detroit's QLINE streetcar route. On Aug. 23, the agency sent a small motorized inspection car known as a "speeder"  along the route on Woodward Avenue.

M-1 Rail's "speeder" inspection car
Photo: M-1 Rail

The speeder checks for obstructions, takes into account the physical dimensions of the streetcar and ensures proper maintenance of traffic, M-1 Rail officials said in a press release.

A driver operates the speeder, which is flanked from both ends by safety vehicles as it travels along Woodward.

M-1 Rail is working with the city on construction and the ongoing testing. Passenger service on the 3.3-mile route is slated to start early next year.

Meanwhile, M-1 Rail also announced that installation of the overhead catenary system is 60 percent completed, with 85 percent of the necessary poles installed. Track installation is 83 percent completed, with overall construction expected to wrap up this year.