Panel Discussion on Transportation Projects May 11, 2009

Michigan Speaker Pro Tempore Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township) will host a meeting on Monday, May 11th with U.S. Reps. John Dingell (D-MI) and Mark Schauer (D-MI) to offer an update on local, state and federal transportation projects aimed at improving Washtenaw County roads.

"I encourage residents to come out for this town hall to learn how our roads and bridges are funded," Byrnes said. "Maintaining our infrastructure is essential to attracting and retaining businesses. Investing in transportation translates into creating jobs which will give our economy a much-needed boost."

"Our communities have concerns about everything from the quality of our roads to the potential of high speed rail," said Dingell. "I look forward to updating our constituents on all the work we have done during the current Congress and I am glad to join with State Representative Byrnes and Congressman Schauer to talk about this progress."

Additional panelists will include Ron DeCook from the Michigan Department of Transportation and Terri Blackmore of the Washtenaw Area Transportation Study.

"Starting this month, the Recovery Act will bring tens of millions of dollars in federal funding to improve Washtenaw County roads and help create local jobs," said Schauer. "Turning our economy around won't happen overnight, but this is an important step in the right direction."

Residents can learn more about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and track announcements by visiting www.recovery.gov or www.michigan.gov/recovery.