As the state House considers Michigan’s next transportation budget plan, state Rep. Ann Bollin (R-Brighton Township) has introduced an amendment that would require the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to investigate the potential of toll roads.
“As representatives, we have an obligation to look into the policy solutions suggested by those we represent,” Bollin said. “We have a responsibility to give them serious consideration and understand what’s involved. We will be better prepared to make informed choices about how to best fund roads for the long run by conducting the due-diligence to research every option brought before us.”
The amendment would only direct MDOT to analyze the process, timelines, opportunities, costs, and revenues associated with toll roads. It does not, Bollin noted, bind the state to use toll roads. She said, instead, that it is about considering revenue options — in particular, ones frequently suggested by public input.
Bollin is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, and as such has been working on this developing budget for months. This is merely the latest addition.