In previous posts, I have discussed how the current debacle on solving the federal 2011 budget could seriously impact funding for important community programs such as CDBG, USDA Rural Development and a host of others.
With a new deadline to settle the budget or face a government shutdown in just under three weeks, new information shows that critical funding for transit projects across Michigan is also in serious jeopardy.
This includes funding for the Detroit to Chicago high speed rail project; Silver Line Bus Rapid Transit in Grand Rapids; reconstruction of the State Street Bridge in Ann Arbor and hybrid buses for the Metro Detroit SMART system. Without the vocal support of local officials, funding for these programs and projects will either be severly cut or eliminated!
Members of Congress are currently on a 10-day recess. It is a imperative for you to contact your congressional representatives while their home, to let them know how federal funding for community development programs has benefited economic growth, jobs and quality of life and why continued funding for these programs and projects is critical to restoring Michigan's economy.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
bd661c1f-7930-4eef-a695-189fc4f9d2ed|0|.0
