Rick Snyder

Michigan governor Rick Snyder has signed a new road funding legislation that will restore deteriorating roads and bridges in the US state.

The legislation, which requires voter approval, will provide a long-term funding source and is expected to put an end to years of financial neglect that plague Michigan’s deteriorating infrastructure.

Snyder said: "Michigan’s roads and bridges put lives at risk, drain family budgets and impede job growth. But we have an opportunity to change that.

"This plan makes long-term investments that will give motorists a safe, modern transportation system. It is a fair, thoughtful proposal that incorporates taxpayer protections and public transparency."

The legislature’s action will raise an estimated $1.3bn a year for transportation if approved by voters.

"This plan makes long-term investments that will give motorists a safe, modern transportation system."

After the first two years of debt management, nearly $1.2bn will go to roads and an estimated $127m for public transit.

Counties, cities and villages will get more than 60% of the road revenue for their local road and bridge needs.

When fully implemented, the plan will provide $26m a year, as well as support state and local harbours, boating access sites and off-road vehicle trails.

The plans will also freeze the registration depreciation tax for current vehicles and eliminate its applicability for new vehicles.

The plan requires that at least 20% of all maintenance contracts entered by the Michigan department of transportation provide payment based on performance outputs or outcomes.

Grand Rapids Public Schools superintendent Teresa Weatherall Neal said: "We are grateful for and encouraged by the bipartisan leadership that led to passage of this package of bills that will provide a new, stable, long-term investment in our transportation infrastructure, while also preserving and enhancing investment in K-12 public education."

Image: Michigan Governor Rick Snyder. Photo: courtesy of state of Michigan.