Local State Representative Shane Hernandez is reacting to the idea of soliciting bids for the privatization of the state-owned half of the Blue Water Bridge. The idea came from an Oakland County State Representative and was proposed as a possible way to raise funds to fix Michigan’s crumbling infrastructure. Hernandez, speaking to WPHM, says it might not be the best way to fix potholes but he is interested in finding out how much it’s worth. “I wouldn’t classify it as an idea to fund roads,” said Hernandez. “I’d classify it as a fact finding mission…. it’s not the only thing we’re doing this with.” Hernandez adds that he brought fourth a similar proposal while he was on the house transportation subcommittee regarding state-owned airports. Hernandez adds that he’d like to see how much cash the bridge could bring in before he put his support behind the proposal.
ORIGINAL STORY:
A Michigan lawmaker is calling on state officials to explore the sale of state-owned infrastructure assets, including the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron. Matt Maddock, an Oakland County Republican, is encouraging the state to solicit bids for the Michigan owned portion of the twin international bridges. According to Michigan News Network Lansing Bureau Chief Tim Skubick, a decision to sell the bridge has not been made but it is clearly on the table. The bridge could bring in 500-to-800 million dollars with that money then used to fund road repairs throughout the state.
