MI infrastructure given poor grades

LANSING, Mich. (WOOD/AP) - A new report gives Michigan dams, roads and other infrastructure systems poor grades.

The review released Tuesday by the state chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers urges Michigan to invest more money in the deteriorating systems.

The overall grade was determined as a 'D.'

Here is a breakdown of the areas of concern and their grades --

• Aviation - received a Cg
• Dams - received a D
• Drinking Water - received a D
• Energy - received a C
• Navigable Waterways - received a C
• Roads and Bridges - received a D
• Storm Water - received a D
• Transit - received a D
• Wastewater Collection Systems - received a C

Last week, our Target 8 investigators found several areas of contamination in drinking water throughout West Michigan.

"This report card emphasizes the critical need for Michigan lawmakers to recognize our state's aging infrastructure is not making the grade," said Thomas Maxwell, P.E., president, ASCE, Michigan Section. "With more than 90 percent of Michigan's 2,581 dams reaching their design life by 2020 and 38 percent of Michigan roads in poor condition, increased investment in Michigan's infrastructure is needed now."

"This report further highlights the desperate need for lawmakers like myself to take the necessary steps to improve funding to maintain and improve Michigan's aging and crumbling infrastructure," said Speaker Pro Tempore Pam Byrnes, Democrat District 52. "We must act now to address Michigan's deteriorating infrastructure needs."

"We hope this report card will spark dialogue among local and state officials, policy makers, and the public to work together to find solutions for Michigan's infrastructure needs," said Ron Brenke, P.E, executive director, ASCE Michigan Section. "Reversing the decay of our aging infrastructure is essential to reviving Michigan’s economy."

ASCE Michigan Section is comprised of more than 2,500 public and private civil engineers. ASCE Michigan Section is a local unit of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Founded in 1852, ASCE represents more than 146,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America's oldest national engineering society.

On the Net:

2009 Michigan Infrastructure Report Card

American Society of Civil Engineers