Potholes, Roads and the Future of a Michigan Rustbelt Town Artwork

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The Mitten Channel is a Michigan podcast and media network created by former Genesee County Prosecutor Arthur Busch.

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Potholes, Roads and the Future of a Michigan Rustbelt Town

November 22, 2022 • Arthur Busch • Season 3 • Episode 34

We discuss how the roads got so bad and how to fix the problem with road and infrastructure expert Dr. John Daly.

Michigan has a significant problem with its roads and bridges. The state has one of the highest numbers of structurally deficient bridges in the country, and many of its roads need repair. This problem has been exacerbated by years of neglect and insufficient funding.

One of the main issues is the lack of funding to maintain and repair the roads and bridges properly. Michigan has relied heavily on gas tax revenues to fund infrastructure projects. Still, these revenues have been declining due to more fuel-efficient vehicles and the increased use of electric vehicles. Additionally, the state has not increased its gas tax since 1997, leading to a significant shortfall in funding.

The state has also struggled with inadequate funding for road maintenance, leading to a backlog of repairs that grows yearly. This has resulted in a significant portion of the state's roads being in poor condition, causing damage to vehicles and creating a safety hazard for drivers.

Furthermore, Michigan's harsh winter weather can also contribute to the deterioration of its roads and bridges. The constant freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snowfall can cause significant damage, compounded by the lack of proper maintenance.

To fix these problems, Michigan needs to invest in its infrastructure by increasing road and bridge maintenance and repair funding. This could involve increasing the gas tax or finding alternative funding sources, such as tolls or user fees. The state also needs to prioritize infrastructure projects and allocate funding more efficiently, focusing on the most pressing needs first.

In conclusion, Michigan's problems with its roads and bridges are multifaceted and require a comprehensive approach to fix. The state must address these issues in a timely manner to improve the safety and quality of life for its citizens.

Fixing aging roads and bridges in cities like Flint, Michigan, needs creative solutions for its hollowed-out city with blocks and blocks of vacant homes. While a vacant house can be torn down, the near-bankrupt municipality must maintain the aging paved roads in front of those houses. Is the answer to downsizing or shrinking the city? How difficult is that to do? Get some answers to these questions and others.

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