LANSING -State Senators John J. Gleason (D-Flushing) and Deb Cherry (D-Burton) voted to pass a plan today that will invest $635 million in the state’s economy through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These federal funds will put Michigan workers back on the job, making improvements to roads, bridges, and highways and pouring money back into the state’s struggling economy.

“Michigan workers are not afraid to get their hands dirty,” said Sen. Gleason. “We built this state with hard work and elbow grease, and we’re ready to build again. These projects will employ thousands of workers, dumping money back into Michigan’s economy and paving the path to economic recovery. I’d like to commend the Genesee County Metropolitan Planning Commission and director Julie Hinterman for their work in selecting these projects for our area.”

Funding is determined by a formula used for the distribution of all federal funds. To meet the criteria, Michigan transportation projects must be ready to go within 120 days, be eligible for federal aid, and be approved through the federal aid process. Distribution within the state is determined by population, where the dollars will have the most impact in creating jobs, and where the greatest need for infrastructure improvements exists. The goal is to stimulate economic activity statewide, and to create as many jobs as possible.

“These projects will reach every corner of our state,” said Sen. Cherry. “Everyone will benefit from these improvements, whether it’s a new construction job, a new business opening down the street, or a smoother and safer ride to visit relatives up north. These dollars will not address every transportation need in Michigan, but their impact will be immediate and it’s important we not waste any time in getting shovels in the ground and putting workers back on the job.”

The legislation approved today includes:

• $26,400,000 for reconstruction of roads and bridges on I-75 and I-475

• $6,625,000 for reconstruction of roads and bridges from M-21 to M-57 and M-13 over Mistequay Creek

• $97,500 to resurface carpool lots on US-23 and M-24

• $1,000,000 for deck replacement of a bridge on M-21 over Mistequay Creek (contingent upon timely completion of initial projects)

If projects are completed within a set frame of time, the state will be eligible for an additional $120 million in funding, which combined with the initial investments will create an estimated 25,000 jobs.

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