State Rep. Annette Glenn today testified in support of her plan to give local governments more flexibility for funding bridge repairs – legislation that could benefit projects in Bay and Midland counties.

Glenn’s measure is part of a broad, ongoing commitment to help rebuild Michigan’s infrastructure. Her legislation is part of a bipartisan package focused on better use of existing road repair resources and giving communities more opportunities to work on local roads and bridges.

“We should do all we can to give local governments every option imaginable to help solve the most urgent road and bridge issues,” Glenn, of Midland, said after testifying before the House Transportation Committee. “This bill simply provides more flexibility and more options as communities find the solutions that work best for them.”

Glenn’s measure – House Bill 4973 – remains in the House Transportation Committee for further consideration.

The plan would allow for the transfer and sharing of local bridge design, construction and operation with the Michigan Department of Transportation. Entering contracts with MDOT would not be mandatory for either local communities or the state – it would simply be an option for communities to consider, Glenn said.

“Local road commissions are not always equipped with the engineering capabilities necessary to properly maintain their bridges,” Glenn said. “This is simply one more option that should be available to help improve the roads and bridges connecting our driveways to highways.”

Glenn’s measure is part of a bipartisan package proposed after a series of town halls throughout the state hosted by state Rep. Jack O’Malley, chair of the House Transportation Committee, on the issue of roads in Michigan. Glenn co-hosted such an event in Midland County in June. Residents, local officials and construction representatives have all offered insights on how roads can be built better and smarter, and the input was instrumental in pursuing meaningful reform.