Lawmakers and Governor Rick Snyder have approved a $7.6 million dollar plan to connect Coleman Road with Wood Road near the border of Clinton and Ingham Counties. The money is part of a nearly $57 billion dollar spending plan approved by the legislature Tuesday.

The plan calls for extending Coleman Rd. at West Road, and running it underneath U.S 127 to reach Wood Road. The project was championed by the Capital Council of Governments, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, and local lawmakers. Supporters say it will ease traffic congestion for major employers along the corridor, and add economic value to the area.

“This is a significant win for the entire region and demonstrates what can happen when business, community and elected leaders share a vision and come together to support infrastructure investment and economic growth,” said Tim Daman, president and CEO of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC). “The Coleman Road extension will provide greater connectivity for our region and attract major economic investment and job growth in our region.”

Senator Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge) says he’s been working on securing funding, along with State Rep. Tom Barrett (R-Potterville) for three years.

“I am happy that this project will bring traffic relief to Lake Lansing Road, around the Eastwood Towne Center as well as spur new economic development opportunities and jobs. This road will benefit Clinton County greatly,” said Jones.

Steve Japinga, Director of Government Relations for the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, says the next step is ironing out the construction details.

READ MORE AT: http://www.wilx.com/content/news/Extension-of-Coleman-Road-part-of-approved-state-budget-485394841.html