State Rep. Gretchen Driskell (D-Saline) voted Wednesday in favor of Senate Bill 233, a bill that would fund more than 70 different projects around the state. The bill also funds 49 emergency dredging projects. The bill passed 107-3.
“This money will go toward parks and other natural sites across Michigan, improving many of our communities, ” Driskell said. “ I fully support making cities and towns more livable and increasing our citizens’ quality of life .”
The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund is a constitutionally protected fund that is dedicated to recreation acquisition and development projects. SB 233 would appropriate $23.3 million for 76 projects; 22 acquisition and 54 development. The bill would also appropriate $21 million for 49 emergency dredging projects that were approved by the State Waterways Commission on Feb. 8.
A dredging project is considered an emergency if it has been determined that “ emergency conditions warrant a dredging project to protect property, public health, safety or welfare .” The bill now will go to the governor’s desk for his signature.
“ Improving Michigan’s parks and waterways will spur tourism across the state, ” Driskell said. “For many communities, visitors drive a large portion of the economy. These projects are a worthwhile investment.”
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Press Release, March 21, 2013