Gov. Gretchen Whitmer visits the Miller-Rotunda Bridge in Dearborn March 3, one of the local bridges targeted by the Michigan Department of Transportation as being in serious or critical condition.
‘We’re going to fix the damn roads and bridges’
By SUE SUCHYTA
Times-Herald Newspapers
DEARBORN – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer visited the Miller-Rotunda Bridge in the South End March 3 — a structure in critical need of repair — and renewed her promise to invest in the region’s infrastructure.
Her Bridge Bundling proposal would provide the Michigan Department of Transportation with $300 million to fix 120 local bridges that are in serious or critical condition, including the Miller-Rotunda bridge, which consists of two spans, originally constructed in 1931, and last rehabilitated 38 years ago.
“We must continue investing in critical infrastructure as we rebuild our economy for our families, small businesses and communities,” Whitmer said. “I am proud of the ongoing work here in Wayne County. Together, we are going to fix the damn roads and bridges.”
City Council President Susan Dabaja, who said she had a chance to speak with Whitmer during the visit, said she is grateful for the bridge’s planned renovation, given its importance to the South End.
“Miller Bridge is an essential part of our daily commute,” she said. “We are happy that Governor Whitmer has included this project in the 2021 budget, and we are hopeful the state legislature will approve it.”
Dabaja said with the bridge’s proximity to the Ford Rouge plant and other manufacturers, it is an important infrastructure component to residents, national security and international trade.