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The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) has joined with more than 200 chambers and business associations around the country led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in urging Congress to adopt a comprehensive infrastructure package by July 4. In a letter to Congress, the bipartisan coalition says the country badly needs massive investment in transportation, energy, water, and communications technology.

“Living in Michigan, we know as well as anyone in the country the devastating effects that neglecting infrastructure causes in every community,” said Tim Daman, president & CEO, LRCC. “Infrastructure investment gets talked about as much as any topic. We have to get past the talking stage and move into action. Crumbling infrastructure is harming productivity, global competitiveness, and quality of life.”

In calling for the enactment of an infrastructure package, the coalition said implementation of the legislation will:

  • Repair and update of the crumbling infrastructure;
  • Stimulate our economy and create middle-class sustaining jobs;
  • Address climate change;
  • Promote fiscally and environmentally responsible policies;
  • Improve federal project approvals; and
  • Address the digital divide

Locally, LRCC and the Capital Area Council of Governments have achieved considerable success in advancing infrastructure investment in the region. Most notably was the recent opening of the Coleman Road extension along the Ingham/Clinton County line. The group is also leading efforts to secure funding for rebuilding the U.S. 127/I-496 interchange and the Michigan Avenue Corridor from the Michigan Capitol eastward.