Grand Rapids Reporter

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-Mich.) recently signed a plan that will invest nearly $5 billion into the state’s infrastructure.

The Building Michigan Together Plan will invest billions of dollars into projects to improve the state's roads, water, and high-speed internet, according to a press release from the governor's office. The plan also serves as the largest single largest investment ever in Michigan's state and local parks.

"The bipartisan Building Michigan Together Plan includes some of the largest investments in our infrastructure in Michigan history," Whitmer said, according to the press release. "I am grateful to our congressional delegation for sending us these resources and proud that the Michigan legislature and I were able to come together to get this done and ensure our infrastructure is reliable for generations to come."

Whitmer made her announcement at a conference including state officials, outdoor recreation enthusiasts, stakeholders, and community members in downtown Grand Rapids, the press release said.  She promoted the plan's historic investment in Michigan’s local parks and recreation facilities. 

"I’m particularly proud of the fact that this plan makes the single largest investment in Michigan history in our state and local parks, empowering hundreds of local economies," Whitmer said.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) spoke on the importance of the plan.

"Over the past year, the Michigan Democratic delegation has delivered for our state — passing bills that protect people from COVID-19 and rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure," Stabenow said, according to the press release. "Now, we are partnering with Gov. Whitmer to use this funding and make meaningful investments for Michigan residents. This means fixing our roads, replacing lead pipes, and finally tackling our spotty internet service. The best part is, we can do all of this all while creating good-paying jobs. Bottom line: it’s a win for Michigan."

Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) spoke at the event as well.

"The United States currently ranks 13th in the world in terms of our infrastructure — which is simply unacceptable," Peters said, according to the press release. "We can and must do more to strengthen and prepare our infrastructure for the 21st century. I was proud to help pass the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will repair our roads and bridges, expand high-speed internet, and replace aging water infrastructure to ensure access to clean drinking water. I applaud Gov. Whitmer for her leadership in helping ensure the federal resources from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will bolster Michigan's economy and create good-paying jobs."

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-Washtenaw) reflected on the plan's impact.

"'Fixing the damn roads' isn't just a catchphrase for Gov. Whitmer, and she’s proved that today by signing the Building Michigan Together Plan into law," Dingell said, according to the press release. "This bipartisan plan will take once-in-a-generation federal funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and invest it in rebuilding our infrastructure, growing our economy, and creating good-paying jobs in Michigan’s 12th district and across our great state. Michigan is setting an example to the nation that when we work together, we can solve real problems hardworking Americans face, and I look forward to seeing the results of this transformative investment."

Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Arenac) explained his part in making the plan work.

"I am working hard to lower costs for Michiganders," Kildee said, according to the press release. "I am proud to have delivered funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bring billions of dollars to the state of Michigan to repair our roads and bridges, invest in the Great Lakes, and expand broadband internet access. This will improve our supply chains and lower costs for Michiganders. I also applaud Gov. Whitmer for creating the first state park in Genesee County in Flint with this funding to help increase access to public spaces for people in urban areas. I will continue to work with the governor to ensure that federal funds are used to improve the lives of Michiganders."