In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the pressing need for infrastructure improvements in Bay City, highlighting the significant financial implications of road maintenance and reconstruction. The current budget for capital projects stands at $2 million annually, which is insufficient to maintain the city's roads, with an average Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating (PASER) score of 3.05, categorizing them as poor.

A detailed analysis revealed that maintaining roads in good condition could save the city over $3 million per mile over 25 years compared to a complete reconstruction, which could cost around $4 million per mile. However, the city would need to triple its current funding to $6 million annually just to maintain the current PASER score, and a staggering $17 million annually to improve it to a fair category.

Funding sources for transportation projects are heavily reliant on state and federal funds, with 88% coming from Act 51. The city also receives 9% from property taxes and 3% from miscellaneous sources. Currently, about $5 million in revenue is allocated, with 42% directed towards major construction and 33% for road maintenance.

Officials emphasized the importance of strategic planning and prioritization in selecting which streets to repair, taking into account factors such as traffic volume, utility needs, and safety assessments. The city has been proactive in seeking grants, with recent successes including $5.9 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and various federal funds for local projects.

Despite these efforts, the city faces a daunting challenge, with an estimated $600 million needed to address all current road issues. As discussions continue, officials are urged to explore additional funding avenues and community engagement to address residents' concerns about road conditions and safety.