Macomb County lawmaker wants to preserve more than $1M in road funding

Susan J. Demas

State Rep. Jaime Greene (R-Richmond) is calling for swift action to keep Macomb County from losing out on more than $1 million in funds used to keep roads safe.

According to a statement from Greene’s office, population changes recorded in the 2020 census have shifted how the funds would be distributed. Michigan’s transportation funds are distributed to the state’s most populous counties each year, but population growth in Kent County has shifted it into the same brackets as Macomb County in the formula used to distribute the funds, meaning the counties could end up splitting one pot of money if action is not taken.

In response, Greene has introduced House Bill 5922 to adjust the population thresholds in the funding formula, ensuring each county would continue to receive the same share of funds they each received in the past.

With the 2025 Fiscal Year (FY) set to begin on Oct. 1, Greene is calling on her colleagues to move quickly and pass her bill before the FY 2025 state budget takes effect.

“This is an urgent situation that requires immediate attention,” Greene said. “Macomb County depends on this funding to ease traffic congestion, maintain our roads, and ensure drivers can travel safely. My solution makes sure our communities are not penalized for changes that are beyond our control.”

“We cannot afford to let this issue fall through the cracks,” Greene said.

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