By Staff
LANSING - Legislative Republicans today announced an agreement had been reached with the governor's office to restore or advance transportation projects that will provide jobs and economic opportunities for many communities statewide.
The projects include congestion relief, safety improvements, public transportation initiatives and recreational facilities.
Reps. Tonya Schuitmaker, Neal Nitz, John Proos and Fulton Sheen said the agreement is good news for Southwest Michigan because it directly applies to U.S. 131, which will bring more economic vitality to the state and encourages job providers to come to the local business communities.
U.S. 131 will receive $31 million to make the infrastructure enhancements.  Two lane improvements will be made along the 17-mile stretch of road from the Indiana border to north of Three Rivers, including a vitally important bypass around the village of Constantine.
Acquisitions to upgrade U.S. 131 to four lanes are underway for future freeway expansion.
Governor Granholm announced the proposal Thursday stating: “Today's announcement is about driving job creation in Michigan and paving the way for growth all across our state. From going anywhere and doing anything to attract jobs to Michigan, to investing in the infrastructure that supports commerce, we have a targeted economic road map, and it's moving Michigan in the right direction.”
The Legislature will implement the legislation needed for these projects in the next few weeks.