The Governor has release his annual budget recommendations but they did not include a long-term solution for transportation funding. The budget included $3.4 billion in ongoing funding and $254 million in on-time general fund spending for 2015.

The $254 million in general fund dollars will be split into two areas. Current transportation revenues are no longer sufficient to match all of Michigan’s available transportation aid. A total  of $139 million will be used to leverage federal dollars. The remaining $115 million will be used for state trunkline road and bridge projects.

The Governor states that he is still committed to securing a comprehensive transportation funding solution. The League appreciates his commitment to the issue but what we need is action. For to long we have neglected our infrastructure in this state and our local communities and their residents are bearing the cost as a result. It is time to address this issue and the League is fully committed to helping find a solution. An investment in our local infrastructure is critical for our state to thrive.

John LaMacchia is a Legislative Associate for the League handling transportation and infrastructure issues. He can be reached at jlamacchia@mml.org or 517-908-0303.