Talking Michigan Transportation

James Jackson, coordinator of MDOT's Transportation Diversity Recruitment Program, discusses the success of the 10-week program and its impact on students' careers. Donte Harris shares how the program helped him land a job at an electric vehicle charging startup in Detroit. The podcast also touches on the importance of diversity in the workforce and the rise of electric vehicles in Michigan.

Baruch Feigenbaum, a transportation policy expert, discusses Michigan's potential shift from fuel taxes to road user charges. He highlights the challenges posed by fuel efficiency and electric vehicles, emphasizing the need for long-term funding policy changes. The conversation delves into the feasibility of a pilot program to assess mileage-based fees, drawing insights from other states' experiences like Oregon and Utah. Feigenbaum addresses concerns about equity, privacy, and sustainability in implementing a new funding system.

Guest Michael J. Coren discusses the cost differences between filling up a gas tank and charging an electric vehicle battery. Factors like charger prices, state variations, and road taxes impact the final calculation. The episode also delves into tailpipe emissions, Americans' perceptions of EVs, and the transition to cleaner energy sources.

Julie Clark, CEO of TART Trails, discusses the economic benefits of trails in Michigan. They talk about community engagement, the positive impacts of trails on well-being, and the importance of collaboration in trail development. They also highlight the role of outdoor activities in enhancing quality of life and state support for nature projects.

Rob Coppersmith, Exec. VP of MITA, and Juan Pava discuss automated technology for work zones. Illinois pioneers speed camera enforcement. Michigan legislation progresses for road worker safety. Importance of infrastructure and safety emphasized. Speed enforcement benefits highlighted for worker and driver safety.

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist discusses the need for motorists to slow down and be alert in work zones. Andy Dauksts from Give 'Em a Brake Safety emphasizes the importance of work zone safety. The podcast highlights the impact of distracted driving on work zone safety and the advocacy for safer driving practices.

MDOT's COO, Gregg Brunner, shares insights on road project prioritization, asset management principles, and work zone safety measures. They discuss legislative changes for automated enforcement and regional goal setting in road maintenance. The podcast highlights Michigan's strategy for managing road infrastructure and ensuring driver safety during construction projects.

Amy Matisoff, from Michigan Department of Transportation, discusses revisiting Complete Streets policy and engaging Michigan residents for feedback. The episode explores challenges in implementing Complete Streets, addressing myths and the importance of tribal liaison role in transportation departments.

Michigan received $110 million in federal funds for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Round 2 of the project will focus on 23 new locations with $15-18 million funding. Discussion includes challenges of EV infrastructure, differences in charger types, and optimism for the future impact of electric vehicle charging.

Survey reveals majority of Michigan voters want all fuel taxes to go towards roads and bridges. Pollster discusses implications of shifting sales tax to road funding. Challenges of balancing transportation funding and proposed solutions like a 6% gas tax. Public debate on road materials preferences and infrastructure investments.