Nearly $4 billion are needed annually to keep Michigan's bridges and roads in a safe and workable condition, according to a new report from TRIP, a non-profit transportation research group.
The report also found 40% of major roads and 11% of bridges in the state are in poor or mediocre condition.
The report's suggestion of billions more in financial resources comes despite recent local and federal investments in infrastructure improvements in the past decade.
- In 2017, the state increased the fuel tax by 26 cents per gallon, generating $347 million annually.
- In 2019, the state passed the Rebuilding Michigan Program, which provided a one-time investment of $3.5 billion in bonds to fund improvements.
- In 2021, the federal government passed the bi-partisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which will provide $7.9 billion in road, highway and bridge funding over five years.
The study concluded that the cost per motorist in various urban areas in the state adds up to $17 billion.
The TRIP report cites increased inflation rates over the past few years as a reason why the gap is so large.
“We're moving to more efficient vehicles. That's certainly a positive in terms of fuel use. That will take a bite out of fuel tax resources. Most states are finding that their fuel tax revenue is flatlining as we move to more efficient vehicles,” said Rocky Moretti, TRIP’s director of policy and research.
Ultimately, advocates at the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association say that increased funding for infrastructure projects will lead to safer roads, increasing the overall quality of life for Michiganders.
