On Wednesday, September 3, ACEC/Michigan joined forces with labor organizations, contractors, and infrastructure advocates at the Save Our Jobs, Fund Our Roads Rally and Lobby Day, held simultaneously at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing and in Negaunee in the Upper Peninsula. The rally drew thousands of participants, including labor union members, contractors, business leaders, and elected officials, united by one urgent message: Michigan must adopt a sustainable, long-term plan for road funding.

ACEC/Michigan was well represented with 50 members in attendance, underscoring the engineering industry’s leadership role in advancing solutions that support Michigan’s economy and transportation network. Our members participated in both the Capitol rally and in legislative meetings throughout the day, ensuring that the engineering profession’s voice was part of the call for action.

The Stakes for Michigan

Speakers at the rally highlighted the looming crisis in transportation funding. Temporary funding streams—such as federal COVID relief, bonding programs, and one-time allocations—are expiring, creating a “dramatic hole” in Michigan’s infrastructure budget. Without legislative action, industry leaders warn that more than 10,000 construction and engineering jobs are at risk, alongside billions of dollars in road and bridge projects critical to safety and mobility.

Both the House and Senate have proposed budgets, with the House version including $3.4 billion for roads. But with an October 1 budget deadline fast approaching, there is growing concern that Michigan communities will be forced to shelve projects or lay off workers if sustainable revenue solutions are not secured.

Voices from the Rally

Participants at both sites made clear the real-world impact of delayed action. In Lansing, heavy equipment was displayed on the Capitol lawn to demonstrate both the scale of road work and what is at stake if projects are canceled or delayed.

ACEC/Michigan’s Role

By showing up in force, ACEC/Michigan members helped highlight the critical link between engineering expertise and the safe, reliable transportation infrastructure Michigan residents and businesses depend on. Direct meetings with legislators gave our members the opportunity to stress that investment in roads and bridges is an investment in Michigan’s economy, jobs, and quality of life.

ACEC/Michigan thanks all members who took time from their schedules to attend. Your participation helped amplify a unified message to state leaders: Michigan cannot afford to delay investment in its transportation future.