Muskegon Heights will finally receive $3 million for road repair

The Michigan House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 150 today with the diligent support of state Rep. Terry Sabo (D-Muskegon), securing $3 million for the repair of Sherman Boulevard, one of the most traveled roads in Muskegon County. An error in the $1.3 billion supplemental budget passed during a late-night lame-duck session last December prevented Muskegon Heights from receiving the funding as expected. SB 150 corrects this language and enables the infrastructure project to move forward as part of a larger plan to repair roads in the community.

“I can’t overstate the importance of this project to Muskegon Heights and the surrounding area for our residents, businesses and tourists traveling this route to Lake Michigan,” Rep. Sabo said. “I am pleased to see that my fellow House members understand the need to right this wrong as quickly as possible, but the initial uncertainty and delay in receiving the promised funds is inexcusable. This is just another example of the absurdity of hasty lame-duck governance when the Legislature is not given time to vet large pieces of legislation properly.”

Sherman Boulevard is a vital road in the greater Muskegon area, allowing residents access to the Mercy Hospital campus and various local businesses, as well as providing tourists a direct route to popular Lake Michigan beach destinations. Rep. Sabo has received praise from local leaders for tirelessly advocating to correct this mistake by ensuring the passage of SB 150, including Muskegon Heights Mayor Kimberly Sims.

“Rep. Sabo has done a great job making sure our voices have been heard,” Mayor Sims said. “We’re really excited about the impact this will have on our community as far as beautification efforts and infrastructure concerns.”

SB 150 is now awaiting the governor’s signature.