Highways: construction and repair; use of certain traffic control devices when closing a freeway or portion of freeway; require under certain conditions. Amends sec. 1 of 1917 PA 165 (MCL 247.291) & adds secs. 1a & 1b.
Impact
The modifications to the law will have a significant impact on how highway closures are managed across Michigan. The requirement for crashworthy barriers aims to enhance the safety of road workers and the traveling public by preventing accidental intrusions into construction zones. This could lead to reduced accidents and injuries during construction activities. Additionally, by allowing the state transportation department to exercise engineering judgment, the legislation accommodates various site-specific conditions, ensuring both flexibility and safety in implementation.
Summary
Senate Bill 43, approved on October 19, 2023, amends existing legislation governing the closing of highways during construction or repair. The bill specifically mandates that when a freeway or portion of it is closed, concrete or equivalent crashworthy temporary barriers must be used to ensure safety for both traffic and road workers. This legislation arises in response to increasing concerns over the adequacy of traffic controls during such closures and aims to standardize practices across Michigan. The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of senators, indicating a collaborative legislative effort on this matter.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 43 appears generally supportive among lawmakers and safety advocates. The rationale behind the bill stems from a consensus that enhancing traffic control during closures can avert accidents and improve overall road safety. However, there may be concerns from construction contractors regarding the costs and logistics of implementing these safety measures, which might be a point of discussion among certain stakeholders.
Contention
One notable point of contention is the balance between safety requirements and economic considerations for construction projects. While proponents argue that the law enhances safety, some critics may raise concerns about potential delays or increased costs associated with road closures and the necessity of adhering to the newly mandated safety measures. Furthermore, the bill's requirement for crashworthy barriers could be scrutinized by those who argue that it could complicate minor repair projects, although exceptions exist for short-duration operations. Overall, the legislative discussions are expected to evolve as the bill is implemented and as stakeholders assess its long-term effects.
Construction: other; use of design-build constructing for certain school buildings; allow. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1937 PA 306 (MCL 388.851 et seq.).
Construction: other; use of design-build constructing for certain school buildings; allow. Amends secs. 1, 1a & 2 of 1937 PA 306 (MCL 388.851 et seq.).
Traffic control: speed restrictions; use of automated traffic enforcement devices in work zones to enforce speed limit reductions; allow. Amends secs. 79d, 907 & 909 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.79d et seq.) & adds secs. 2c, 627c & 907a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4133'23
Highways: memorial; portion of M-39; designate as the "Bishop P.A. Brooks Memorial Freeway". Amends 2001 PA 142 (MCL 250.1001 - 250.2092) by adding sec. 113.
Traffic control: traffic regulation; filtering between lanes by a motorcycle; allow under certain conditions. Amends sec. 660 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.660).
Traffic control: speed restrictions; determination in accordance with traffic engineering practices; modify. Amends sec. 628 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.628).
A bill for an act relating to automated traffic systems, including for traffic law enforcement and for capture of registration plate images, providing penalties, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 740.) Effective date: 05/17/2024, 07/01/2024.
A resolution to recognize June 2023 as the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Construction Technicians, Engineers, and Contractors Appreciation Month.