Pontiac Times

Michigan Senator Michael Webber has introduced legislation aimed at improving funding for the construction of sound barriers along highways in the state. The bill, known as Senate Bill 643, would create a fund within the Michigan Department of Treasury to support noise abatement projects where sound walls are not currently located.

Webber's push for increased funding comes after he was able to secure a $10 million appropriation in the state's 2024 fiscal year budget for the construction of sound walls along two sections of I-75 in Troy. This funding was in response to residents' concerns about increased noise pollution following upgrades to the interstate in 2015.

"The current process of residents appealing to their state legislator to advocate for sound wall funding within the annual state budget isn't practical or sustainable - a formal funding model is needed," said Webber. He explained that his understanding from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) was that federal dollars are typically used for sound wall construction. However, the I-75 corridor project had already been completed, making it ineligible for federal funding. Webber's bill aims to address this issue and ensure that future projects can receive state funding.

To develop his legislation, Webber looked to Minnesota, the only other state with a mechanism in place to fund sound wall construction at the state level, rather than relying solely on federal dollars. By modeling his bill after Minnesota's law, Webber hopes to create a more sustainable and efficient process for funding sound barriers in Michigan.

The proposed fund within the Department of Treasury would be administered by MDOT and would support qualifying noise abatement projects where sound walls are not currently present. This would provide residents seeking relief from noisy highways with easier access to funding for sound barrier construction.

Webber's efforts to address noise pollution and improve funding for sound barriers are part of his commitment to serving the residents of Michigan. As he stated, "My bill would fix this situation in the future." By introducing this legislation, Webber is taking proactive steps to ensure that the state has a formal and sustainable funding model in place for noise abatement projects.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about their state government and follow Senator Webber's updates on his email list. With his dedication to addressing the concerns of Michigan residents, Webber is striving to make a positive impact in the state's transportation infrastructure and quality of life for its citizens.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.senatormichaelwebber.com/webber-introduces-bill-to-better-fund-noise-barrier-construction-along-michigan-highways/