Road Commission to consider revised 2012 local road program contract at Tuesday's meeting

Elected officials may see some changes in the contract that includes a total of $500,000 available funding, which will be divided into county-wide and urban distribution. In addition, there will be $200,000 for a drainage matching projects that can be used on local uncurbed, non-subdivision roads.

How much each township will receive depends on the centerline miles and population, and with the new census figures, many townships will receive more funding than in previous years. And townships with urban local roads, including Ann Arbor, Dexter, Lima, Lodi, Northfield, Pittsfield, Saline, Saline, Scio, Superior, Webster, York and Ypsilanti townships, will be eligible for additional money because urban roads receive a higher allocation of Michigan Transportation funds.

If the contract is approved by the Road Commission, it’s expected that any unused funds not already earmarked, will not longer be carried over to the next year unless a specific project is designated by the township in writing.

In addition, townships will be required to finalize the year’s plans by May 25 and if the draft contract is approved, unused funds, which have in the past been as much as $80,000, may be reallocated to the primary road maintenance projects.

Unlike in past years, if a township decides to use funds for primary roads instead of local roads, the Road Commission will no longer offer $2 dollars for every dollar of township matching money.

The Road Commission estimated $16.25 million in Michigan Transportation Fund revenues in 2011, but the final figures show a slight increase. Total revenues were actually $16,378,510.

Once approved, the Road Commission will begin meeting with township representatives to finalize which road projects will be completed in 2012. If residents have specific projects they'd like to see considered, contact your township supervisor with your suggestions.

The Road Commission meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. at the Road Commission board room, 555 N. Zeeb Road in Scio Township.