We all know the problem. Michigan’s potholed roads are lousy! SEMCOG – the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments – reports that only 19-percent of our regional roads are in good condition.:
“Michigan has been dead last in the nation in the investment that we’ve been putting into our roads. And that’s been the case for the last two decades.” Bill Anderson - SEMCOG - Local Government/Finance Specialist
That’s true. It didn’t happen overnight so it won’t be fixed overnight. SEMCOG estimates it would take $1.6 billion a year over 25 years to get 80-percent of our roads in good or fair condition.
Our recent Action News reports have shown that years of neglect and piecemeal funding has local and state officials feeling the heat and frustration of Michigan drivers.
(Driver reactions)
“I’ve seen third world countries that have better roads than this!” Mark Vanderpool, Sterling Hts. City Manager
“You’re responsible for coming up with the funding. If you can’t do that then let us know so we can come up with another partner.” Mark Hackel, Macomb County Executive
“You’re going to see a lot of barrels in every corner of Michigan. We all need to be part of the solution not one single party.” MI. Governor Rick Snyder
In 2015, the state hiked gas taxes and license fees to partially address the problem. An additional $175 million in road funding was added early this year after a bad winter.
Clearly, Michigan needs a bold, comprehensive, bi-partisan plan to pave the way for smooth and safe roads.
I’m Mike Murri, Vice President & General Manager
Broadcast: April 12 - 15, 2018
