LANSING, Mich., June 29, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed the state’s fiscal 2023-24 budget yesterday. This is the first budget in 40 years crafted by a Democratic trifecta — it reflects Michigan’s values by making the largest investment in education in the state’s history, including free breakfast and lunch for every public school student and affordable pre-K, as well as substantial investments in workforce recruitment and retention, water infrastructure, and public safety. The legislators worked in a bipartisan fashion to deliver a timely, responsible budget that ensures federal funding stays in Michigan instead of being sent back to Washington, D.C.
“This budget has been thoughtfully crafted to strategically support Michiganders and address their needs,” said state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming). “For months, my colleagues and I listened to our constituents about their priorities, and this budget reflects those priorities and works for all people across Michigan. I am grateful to have brought home more than $30 million to the 83rd House District. Notably, $20 million has been awarded to the city of Wyoming for a transformational infrastructure project that will create economic opportunity for the people of this community and put Wyoming on the map as the preeminent suburb in metro Grand Rapids.”
Along with Kent County’s $6 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) contribution and the city’s investment of $10 million of its own ARPA funds, the state’s investment will allow the city to complete its City Center project. This includes the construction of a pedestrian bridge over 28th Street near Hook Avenue that will serve as the entryway to the city’s future downtown center and provide a direct connection to the city’s park system.
“The investment from the state allows the city to expedite the City Center project and complete most of the phased project immediately,” Wyoming City Manager John Shay said. “Watching this project come to fruition is a success for our entire community and we are deeply thankful to state Senator Winnie Brinks and state Representative John Fitzgerald for putting a spotlight on our community infrastructure project.”
“We are so thankful to our state legislators and Governor Gretchen Whitmer for their continued support and recognition of our City Center project,” Wyoming Community and Economic Development Director Nicole Hofert said. “Because of this funding, we can fully implement all trails, streetscaping enhancements and a public plaza.”
Additional investments for Wyoming include $5 million for the Hispanic Chamber and $5 million for the Special Olympics.