State Rep. Steve Frisbie last week delivered testimony before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity in support of two urgently needed infrastructure and public safety projects that would directly benefit Calhoun County residents.

Frisbie advocated for $3.3 million to rebuild Bridge Structures 1383 and 1384 in Sheridan Township, which were shut down late last year and earlier this year due to dangerous corrosion. The closures have severely disrupted travel for area farmers and created public safety risks for residents cut off from emergency services and routine deliveries.

“These bridges are more than just concrete and steel—they’re lifelines for our farmers, families, and first responders,” said Frisbie. “Calhoun County has exhausted every option. Without this funding, these crossings will remain barricaded indefinitely.”

$200,000 of the request would fund environmental reviews and design work, while $3.1 million would cover full reconstruction.

Frisbie was joined in his testimony by Kristine Parsons, Managing Director of the Calhoun County Road Department, and Richard Porter, Supervisor of Sheridan Township. Parsons described the project as “our last option” to reopen these critical connections. Porter shared examples of the increasing safety risks caused by the closures, including longer emergency response times and dangerous detours onto busier rural roads.

Frisbie also urged the committee to support $125,000 for the City of Springfield to construct protective carports for law enforcement vehicles. Currently, Springfield patrol cars are parked unprotected and exposed year-round to Michigan’s harsh weather—causing wear and tear on key systems and delaying emergency response during snow or storms.

“A simple carport investment will go a long way to preserve public safety in Springfield,” Frisbie said. “This funding will reduce vehicle maintenance costs, improve reliability, and help officers respond faster when every second counts.”

Both requests reflect Frisbie’s commitment to ensuring state resources are directed where they are most urgently needed—to protect lives, support agriculture, and strengthen local law enforcement.

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