Manchester residents have some of the longest commutes in the county

The Washtenaw County Department of Health released data for average commute to work times for residents in different areas of Washtenaw County. These calculations were made based on the American Community Survey conducted by the US Census Bureau between 2013 and 2017. The Health Department determined the average travel time to work in Washtenaw County is 23.7 minutes but average commute times differ depending on where in the county you live. The Manchester area has some of the longest commutes in the county.

Residents of Bridgewater, Freedom, and Sharon Township have an average commute to work of 28.8 minutes and Manchester Township residents have an average commute to work of 32.6 minutes. The only longer average commute times in the county are found in Lyndon Township in the north-west corner of the county, and the southern half of Augusta Township in the south-east corner of the county.

Why is a longer commute an issue? The Health Department states, “Lengthy commutes cut into workers’ free time and can contribute to health problems such as headaches, anxiety, and increased blood pressure. Longer commutes require workers to consume more fuel, which is both expensive for workers and damaging to the environment.”

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.