LANSING, Mich., March 12, 2020 — State Rep. Jon Hoadley (D-Kalamazoo) successfully secured significant funding in the supplemental state budget approved by the House and Senate this week to move to the next phase of the completing the US-131 bypass in Kalamazoo, as well as supporting Sen. McCann’s efforts to provide increased funding to Western Michigan University’s Unified Clinics.  This is coupled with nearly $25,000,000 new funding for coronavirus response funds. Hoadley serves as the ranking Democratic member of the House Appropriations Committee.

“We need to rework transportation in our region.  With downtown Kalamazoo moving towards two-way streets, major industrial expansion increasing truck traffic, a need to rework our rail crossings, and the clear demand for more non-motorized transportation, moving forward with finishing the US-131 bypass is a key piece of the puzzle.  This funding brings us one step closer to that goal.  I’m pleased we were able to support life-changing work at WMU’s Unified Clinics so that they can continue to provide vital health services to residents in our communities. With other funding priorities moving forward like funding for coronavirus response, restoring funding for the Centers for Independent living, erosion prevention, and the Reconnect program, Michigan residents will see investments in people and our community.”

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