Infrastructure & Transportation

Federal Transportation Funding

• In 2008, the balance in the Federal Highway Trust Fund dropped to zero and Congress took steps to temporarily restore funding for this critical program. In 2009, Congress will start work on reauthorizing the federal law that distributes highway funds to the states. Michigan has historically been a “donor state,” which means that for every dollar of transportation taxes we send to Washington, D.C., we get back 92.5 cents. We will work to address this and in addition, we will review the funding formula under P.A. 51 and advocate that the West Michigan region receives its fair share for targeted projects.

State Transportation Funding

• Support the recommendations of the state’s Transportation Funding Task Force to increase funding dedicated to transportation infrastructure, one of our state’s most critical economic assets. However, before funding increases are enacted, the Committee would first like to see spending reforms throughout the entire State Budget, Michigan Department of Transportation reforms and efficiencies and the reduction of interdepartmental grants. After these reforms are enacted, it would then be appropriate to consider the rest of the proposed options like aviation fuel tax increases and diesel tax parity before increasing registration fees.

U.S. 131 Extension to the Indiana Border

• The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for the extension of U.S. 131 to the Indiana border. We will support the Michigan Department of Transportation and their efforts to construct a limited access highway, allowing West Michigan businesses a direct connection to the major east / west thoroughfare (80/90 toll road).

Bridge Improvement and highway expansion along I196 and I96 

• Support the improvement/widening of bridges along I196 and I96 from the Grand River to M21. In addition, the Chamber will work with the Michigan Department of Transportation to keep traffic flow moving through and around the city for the duration of the improvement projects.

Public Transportation Funding

• In recognition of the key role a sound, efficient public transportation system has in the economic health and vitality of our region, the Chamber will advocate for increased funding and a more stable allocation of public transportation dollars. Specifically, the Chamber supports the inclusion of performance standards into the state operating allocation formula; prohibiting the allocation of local bus operating line revenues to other projects. Public transportation remains a key element to the continuation of a solid economic development engine and a significant tool for growing businesses.

WHY? Investment in our transportation & infrastructure systems is a jobgenerating
investment everyone benefits from. It is vital to economic competitiveness and should remain a top priority for the business community. The Chamber supports the recommendations of the state’s Transportation Funding Task Force to increase funding dedicated to transportation for some of our state’s most critical assets as soon as possible or face more costly to repairs in the future.