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The winter of 2008 developed into the “perfect storm” for Michigan’s county road commissions. After experiencing years of flat or decreasing revenues and sky rocketing costs, a winter with higher than average snow falls has hit local road agencies especially hard. Full Story
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Pothole Contest Highlights Need for Increased Road Funding
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The Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association (MITA) recently announced the winners of their annual pothole contest. The contest, sponsored by the Michigan Transportation Team (MTT) is intended to highlight the poor condition of Michigan’s roads and bridges. According to County Road Association of Michigan (CRAM) Director, John Niemela, “The results of the contest support the need for additional funding. Full Story
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Gas Tax Debate--Not Just in Michigan
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From the Corn Belt to the Deep South, from the West Coast to the East, states are struggling with a lack of transportation funding. The deterioration of the transportation infrastructure is being felt across the country as costs and inflation increase, while funding available for road projects stagnates. In order to fully understand the federal response to road funding, it is helpful to have a glimpse at what other states are dealing with. Full Story
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Abolishing Road Commissions?
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State Senators John Gleason and Jud Gilbert, and State Representatives Richard Hammel and David Robertson, have introduced legislation to abolish road commissions. While it may not come as a surprise that the County Road Association of Michigan opposes this legislation, the reasons deserve careful consideration. An objective review of the arguments on both sides of this issue must consider accountability and accessibility, as well as potential cost savings. Full Story
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