LANSING, Mich. (Feb. 11, 2021) — Sen. Paul Wojno (D-Warren) today released the following statement in support of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s proposed investments in public infrastructure projects, including for road and bridge repairs and wastewater protection efforts:
“Gov. Whitmer’s budget proposal for the next fiscal year prioritizes the safety of all our residents and the health of our economy by investing in what is needed to truly rebuild our state. I look forward to working with her and my colleagues to make these infrastructure priorities a reality so that Michigan residents get the safe roads and structurally sound bridges they deserve.
“Additionally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the Governor’s $290 million investment in wastewater protection programs. Whether it’s the risk of sewage overflow from heavy rains polluting Lake St. Clair or a sewer collapse that creates a giant sinkhole in Fraser, Macomb residents have had their fair share of critical infrastructure problems that need to be addressed. I’m glad to see a budget that funds such septic issues like these because it’s critical that we protect our waterways and the public’s health.”
The proposed appropriations in the Fiscal Year 2022 budget specific to infrastructure include the repair or replacement of approximately 120 local bridges in serious and critical condition. Through a coordinated, statewide approach, this $300 million proposed investment will promote cost savings throughout the design and construction process and can be expanded if additional federal stimulus or infrastructure dollars become available.
The FY 2022 Executive Recommendation also invests $290 million in wastewater protection, including:
- Clean Water Infrastructure Grants to eliminate sanitary sewer overflows, correct combined sewer overflows, and increase green infrastructure. ($235 million)
- Substantial Public Health Risk Grants to remove direct and continuous discharges of raw sewage from surface or ground water. ($20 million)
- Failing Septic System Elimination Program ($35 million)
An additional $3 million will be granted to locals for stormwater, asset management, and wastewater projects.
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