LANSING - State Rep. John J. Gleason, D-Flushing, has been named to a special subcommittee of the House Transportation Committee to help resolve a highly publicized controversy over who should control the Mackinac Bridge.
Republican House Speaker Craig DeRoche asked Gleason to serve on the special panel formed in response to the recent flare-up between the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Mackinac Bridge Authority over who has ultimate oversight of the bridge.
"I look forward to working with Rep. Gary McDowell, D-Rudyard, and other Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to resolve this matter in a manner that will best serve taxpayers and residents on both sides of the bridge," Gleason said. "The Mackinac Bridge is a symbol of our great state. It should not be used as a political football."
The conflict stems from a disagreement between MDOT and the Bridge Authority over the functions of each agency on matters involving the span that unites the upper and lower peninsulas. The Authority, created in 1950, has operated and maintained the bridge since it opened in 1957.
McDowell, who formally requested to be a member of the panel but was denied by DeRoche, expressed confidence that Gleason will seek his advice and counsel on the issue.
"While I am disappointed that the Speaker didn't see fit to put me on the subcommittee since I represent the district where the bridge is located, I will work closely with Rep. Gleason and the other committee members to resolve this matter," said McDowell. "I have confidence that Rep. Gleason will fully consider my recommendations and stand up for Northern Michigan and the U.P. interests on this issue."
MDOT has begun handling some functions previously managed by the Mackinac Bridge Authority, including insurance and overseeing the investment of funds for maintenance projects.
