The bill amends the existing law regarding the construction projects of highways, streets, roads, and bridges in Michigan, specifically focusing on the bidding process for projects exceeding $100,000. It stipulates that such projects must be awarded through competitive bidding unless the Department of Transportation finds that an alternative method serves the public interest. The director of the department is required to report these findings to the state transportation commission and the appropriations committees of the legislature. Additionally, the bill exempts the installation or upgrading of advanced traffic operation centers and traffic signal systems from this competitive bidding requirement.

Furthermore, the bill introduces specific criteria for local road agencies regarding construction projects. It mandates that projects exceeding $350,000 or those that push total costs over $1,350,000 in a fiscal year must also adhere to competitive bidding unless an alternative method is justified. The bill includes provisions for adjusting these dollar amounts for inflation annually and requires local road agencies to report their findings to their respective governing bodies before commencing work. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance transparency and accountability in the procurement process for transportation projects in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 247.661