New SMART bus route links Hamtramck, Detroit

State of play: Line 500 connects Hamtramck residents and more east-side residents with the city center.

• It also brings Detroiters easier access to restaurant and shopping opportunities in Hamtramck.
• The route extends from the Bel Air Center on 8 Mile Road to Hamtramck, New Center, Midtown destinations like the DIA and downtown.

Context: Line 500 comes in response to Hamtramck residents asking for more bus service, according to the Hamtramck Review.

What's next: SMART said the route will eventually extend past 8 Mile into Macomb County — along Mound to Hall Road in Sterling Heights.

If you go: Check routes near you and times on the Transit app, Google Maps or SMART's website. You can pay in cash or through the Transit app.

• Line 500 operates hourly, 6am-11pm Monday-Saturday and 8am-5pm Sunday.