Robert Cramer, previously the general manager of the Detroit People Mover, has been appointed as the new head of Detroit's Department of Transportation (DDOT). This leadership change comes at a crucial time as DDOT faces challenges related to the condition of its buses, with one-third of the fleet in disrepair. The city has acknowledged the impact on riders, including extended wait times, and has taken steps to address the issue, such as increasing the number of buses in service by 20%. Amidst these challenges, DDOT is also experiencing growth in bus ridership, with more than 250,000 passengers using the service weekly. Looking ahead, the city plans to enhance DDOT's fleet by delivering 84 new buses in the next two years, with a significant portion being hybrid fuel vehicles. Additionally, DDOT will introduce electric buses in 2025 and hydrogen fuel cell buses in 2026, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable and innovative transportation solutions. The completion of the new $160 million Coolidge Terminal in 2026 will further support DDOT's operations, serving as a modern facility on the city's west side. Robert Cramer expressed his dedication to leading DDOT and continuing its progress towards becoming a first-class transit system. His experience in transportation leadership, including roles at the Detroit People Mover and the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART), positions him well for this new role. With a focus on improving bus service quality, expanding operations, and enhancing public transit infrastructure, Detroit aims to bring DDOT back to pre-pandemic service levels by 2025 and foster continued growth in the years to come.