Snyder, Lawmakers Face Tough Road Funding Choices | News

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Gov. Rick Snyder's State of the State address will kick off a debate over how to raise money for badly needed repairs to Michigan's roads and bridges.

Few would disagree that the state's transportation infrastructure needs fixing.

Government and private reports estimate that around $1.5 billion is needed each year to fill potholes and complete other maintenance work. And that doesn't include funds for improvements.

Snyder called last year for replacing the 19-cents-per-gallon tax on gasoline with a tax on the wholesale price of fuel. The Legislature took no action. He says he'll make more specific proposals in his speech Wednesday.

Mike Nystrom of the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association says poor roads are hurting the state's economy. He says strong leadership is needed to win support for new funding.

-- JOHN FLESHER

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