Sen. Casperson comments on Gov. Snyder’s special message on infrastructure

LANSING, Mich.—State Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Tom Casperson, R-Escanaba, released the following statement Wednesday following Gov. Rick Snyder’s special message to the Legislature on infrastructure.
 
“I appreciate Governor Snyder’s commitment to building and maintaining a strong infrastructure in Michigan. We share the belief that a healthy infrastructure is essential to the long-term growth and success of our state and its people. Safe, quality roads are vital to keeping and attracting businesses and jobs, as well as the tens of thousands of tourists who enjoy a Pure Michigan holiday every year.
 
“Having easy and affordable access to a broadband Internet connection is also an essential part of a 21st century economy. That nearly one–third of Michigan residents do not have high-speed Internet access is a limiting factor in growing jobs in our state, particularly in the Upper Peninsula and other rural areas.
 
“There is no question that Michigan, as the motor capital of the world, needs quality roads to match. Today we do not have them. Michigan roads rank second-worst nationally. They need serious attention and the funding to make sure projects are done right and completed on time. Eliminating burdensome regulations is also key to their timely improvement. But simply throwing more money at a problem doesn’t fix it – we need to make sure that the very limited resources available are used as efficiently and effectively as possible.
 
“The proposals in Governor Snyder’s special message on infrastructure are among a number of ideas that the Senate Transportation Committee is prepared to discuss, including legislation already introduced by my Senate Republican colleagues. I am confident that through the legislative process we will be able to work together with the administration and my Senate and House colleagues to find solutions to make sure Michigan has the best possible roads and bridges for today and tomorrow.”