It’s not every day that a major institution like the Michigan Department of Transportation throws open the communication channels in search of your comments regarding specific road projects and other initiatives in their next five year plan, but that opportunity is now officially yours until the end of the month.
This particular 5-year plan is critical to Southwest Michigan with 35 road and bridge project repairs or new construction plans in Berrien County alone including the projected major finish linking I-94 and US 31, which has been on the books and in various stages of completion for more than 40 years now.
MDOT is seeking public comment on their draft 2020-2024 Five-Year Transportation Program through August 30th. The draft document, which is updated annually, includes information about MDOT’s mobility initiatives, revenues and a list of specific transportation projects planned for the next five years in each of MDOT’s seven regions.
You can view the entire 41-page program document, complete with lists, charts, timelines and more, on the MDOT website by clicking the link below. You will also find an interactive map showing the location, description and proposed construction year for upcoming projects. Here is that link:
http://www.Michigan.gov/MDOT5YearProgram
The Five-Year Transportation Program, a continuous, interactive dialogue with state transportation system users, emphasizes an integrated multi-modal program, system preservation and safety. The program also anchors MDOT’s project development efforts while carrying out the goals and policies outlined by the State Transportation Commission (STC).
In addition to providing a list of MDOT-managed road and bridge projects, the document addresses investment strategies, funding assumptions, and economic benefits for all modes of transportation in Michigan, including highways, public transit, rail, air, marine, and nonmotorized transportation.
MDOT submitted the draft 2020-2024 Five-Year Transportation Program to the STC on July 18th. It will remain a draft program until it receives final approval by the STC, which is expected to occur on Thursday, October 17th.
Alternative formats, such as print, large type and language translation, are available upon request. Comments will be accepted from now until Friday, August 30th, and can be e-mailed to MDOT-Five-Year-Program@Michigan.gov or directed to:
Lina Chapman
Michigan Department of Transportation
Systems Evaluation and Program Development Unit
425 W. Ottawa St.
P.O. Box 30050
Lansing, MI 48909
