Modernizing Michigan’s mobility would make lasting impact for years to come in transit, rail, other mobility projects
LANSING – A diverse group of environmental advocacy and community organizations is urging the Michigan Legislature to modernize Michigan’s mobility and fund the state’s full transportation system, including strengthening bus systems, enhancing mobility options and expanding train services to better connect more Michigan communities.
The group is also calling on the Legislature to pass a package of bills aimed at reforming the Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) Fund to ensure it funds transformational transit options for Michiganders.
The current SOAR Fund does not have any revenue sources beyond 2025. The proposed package of legislation would provide an annual $600 million appropriation for the fund through the 2034-35 fiscal years, including $200 million annually to fund public transit and public development projects through the Michigan Mobility Trust Fund.
This push for prioritizing full public transit funding comes days after Michigan Republicans proposed a $2.7 billion road funding plan and Michigan Democrats introduced House Bill 6213, which would designate revenue generated by the Corporate Income Tax to the Michigan Transportation Fund.
However, the coalition emphasizes that any legislation passed to support road infrastructure must continue the longstanding practice of including funding for full public transportation.
“Public transit is essential to Michigan residents including working families, seniors, students and others who depend on public transportation to get where they need to go,” said Ross Gavin, policy director of urban land use, water infrastructure, and transportation for the Michigan Environmental Council. “In the waning days of the legislative session, our lawmakers must ensure that public transit is funded to help Michiganders get to where they need to go now and long into the future.”
“Driving shouldn’t determine destiny, even here in the Motor City,” said Megan Owens, executive director of Transportation Riders United (TRU). “As we give thanks for the opportunities and independence Michigan’s public transit provides, we implore our legislators to invest in the transit so many of us depend on.”
“After decades of disinvestment in public transit, this legislation is Michigan’s best and biggest opportunity to turn things around and transform our communities,” said Alexis Blizman, legislative and policy director for the Ecology Center. “This bill package would create jobs, increase access to the places that make Michigan great and help Michiganders reach the services they need in their everyday lives. We urge the Michigan Legislature to pass this important piece of legislation.”
“Investing in public transportation would spur Michigan’s economic growth and retain our state’s talented workers,” said Dr. Denise Keele, executive director of the Michigan Climate Action Network. “It would also cut down on tailpipe emissions, keeping our air cleaner to breathe and helping us meet our climate goals. It is essential that the Michigan Legislature makes public transit a priority. The time is now.”
“Investing in modern trains and bus service is not just about moving people; it’s about moving Michigan forward. Transit attracts businesses, retains talent and revitalizes communities, making our state a destination for opportunity and innovation,” said Carolyn Ulstad, transportation program manager at Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities.
The following groups also expressed support for modernizing Michigan’s mobility:
- Congress of Communities
- Eastside Community Network
- Evergreen Action
- Hope Village Revitalization
- Michigan Clean Cities
- Michigan Clinicians for Climate Action
- North Toledo Block Club Detroit
- Riverwise Magazine
- Sierra Club
- Soulardarity
- Source Booksellers-Midtown Detroit
- Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision
- Urban Neighborhood Initiatives
- 27th Letter Books
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