On a busy stretch of US 131 in Grand Rapids, flashing lights and cameras are now stopping drivers before a wrong turn turns deadly. Since nearly two dozen new detection systems were installed in 2023, crashes have dropped sharply.
Michigan roads
Posted inMichigan Government
Before road funding deal, road builder money flowed to Michigan lawmakers
Political donations by road builders doubled in 2025 as Michigan lawmakers negotiated a road funding deal. Much of the money flowed in August, when industry officials spent big at a fundraiser for House Speaker Matt Hall’s political action committee.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan EV fees spike under road funding deal, now nation’s highest
Michigan has nearly doubled electric vehicle registration fees for 2026 as part of last year’s road funding deal, which triggered an overlooked provision of state law. As EV drivers call foul, a legislative fix seems unlikely.
Posted inQuality of Life
Gordie Howe Bridge to give Michigan a walkable, bikeable link to Canada
Expected to open in 2026, Detroit’s Gordie Howe International Bridge will be Michigan’s only crossing to Canada with a pedestrian and bike path.
Posted inQuality of Life
Expect busy Michigan roads for Thanksgiving. Record travel predicted
Michigan is expected to see record Thanksgiving travel again this year, with most residents choosing to drive amid ongoing flight concerns. Officials are urging caution around cyber scams, gas costs and peak traffic.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan Marijuana group sues to block new tax central to road funding deal
An industry group wants to block implementation of a 24% wholesale tax that is central to lawmaker’s $2 billion road funding plan.
Posted inMichigan Government
Gretchen Whitmer signs $81B Michigan budget, roads deal. What to know
Michigan’s new budget has more money for roads, more taxes on pot and some new spending cuts. What to know about the $81B spending law.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan business sweat tax changes in road, budget deal
Michigan businesses leaders slam legislation to raise money for road repairs as part of a broader state budget deal, calling it a tax increase on job creators.
Posted inBusiness Watch, Michigan Government
Whitmer biz incentives may face chopping block as part of Michigan budget deal
Michigan funding for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s signature business incentive program would be eliminated and redirect to roads under a new plan from legislators attempting to avoid a state government shutdown.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Funding crisis threatens essential public transit services in Michigan
In the absence of significant state reinvestment, local transportation systems across Michigan will be forced to cut routes, reduce service hours and eliminate jobs.