A proposal establishing a sound barrier construction program along state highways was announced this week. The legislation sponsored by Representative Tom Kuhn (R-Tory) and Representative Sharon MacDonnell (R-Troy) mirrors a similar plan introduced by Senator Mike Webber (R-Rochester Hills) last fall in the Senate.
Key Points:
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- The legislation creates a noise barrier fund in the state treasury to offer grants or loans to local authorities for noise barrier construction.
- Applicants seeking funding would undergo a review process where proposed projects would be scored based on criteria including project cost, residents affected, and existing noise at the site.
- Other states have adopted similar initiatives aimed at improving quality of life by lowering noise levels.
Next Steps:
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- The bills will be introduced and referred to committee in the coming weeks.