UPDATE: The Ionia County Board of Commissioners has just approved crucial revisions to road budget policies, aimed at streamlining the construction of primary and local roads and bridges. This decision, made during a heated meeting on October 3, 2023, comes as the county grapples with escalating infrastructure costs.
Managing Director of the Ionia County Road Department, Linda Pigue, successfully presented the updates, which will simplify funding processes. The revisions include a significant change to the funding structure for local bridge projects, with a resolution to “grandfather in” applications submitted before January 1, 2026.
Pigue explained the necessity for these changes, stating, “The cost of replacing and repairing bridges is skyrocketing, and I just don’t think most townships are going to be able to afford this.” Currently, replacing all 33 primary road bridges would cost approximately $3,722,920, while 34 local road bridges would require about $14,731,250.
The revised policies, known as “Policy 03” and “Policy 04,” shift funding responsibilities. Under the new guidelines, upgrades to primary roads and bridges will be fully funded by the Road Department, alleviating financial pressure on local townships. However, improvements to local roads and bridges will remain the responsibility of the respective townships.
Commissioner Jack Shattuck raised concerns regarding the financial disparities among townships, stating, “I’m just concerned that we’re making it so the townships have to pay 100% for the local roads.” Despite dissent, the commission voted 5-2 in favor of the policy changes, with Shattuck and Commissioner Larry Tiejema opposing the revisions.
The urgency of this decision reflects the county’s struggle with bridge repairs and construction, which have become increasingly expensive. Pigue noted that federal grants are available, but local governments must still contribute significantly to project costs. She highlighted a recent bridge replacement proposal with an estimated cost of $1,452,000, which would require a local match of $72,600 split between Ionia County and Ronald Township. However, many townships are struggling financially, complicating their ability to meet these funding requirements.
As Ionia County residents await the impacts of these policy changes, the Board of Commissioners also addressed several other matters during the meeting, including setting the date for their annual organizational meeting on January 13, 2026, and approving contracts for road maintenance.
Next Steps: The implications of these policy revisions will be closely monitored as the county moves forward with its road and bridge projects. Residents and local officials alike are urged to stay informed about funding opportunities and project timelines that may affect their communities.
The Ionia County Board’s bold move to revise road funding policies aims to ensure safer, more reliable infrastructure for residents amid rising costs. For continuous updates on local governance and infrastructure developments, stay tuned.
