By John Lindstrom
Publisher
Posted: September 26, 2019 4:19 PM

Ages ago, when the state was anchored in what was really the worst recession since the Great Depression, the one from 1979 to 1983, Governor William Milliken's administration was desperate to find any way to cut spending. Someone suggested they close half the restrooms in state buildings. An analysis was conducted and determined when calculating lights, saving water, soap, paper and cleaning costs it would all add up to the state saving at least 20 grand on an annual basis. The cost of one state worker at the time.

This reporter found out about it and called Budget and Management Director Gerald Miller. Yes, they had looked at closing the restrooms, he said. But, said our reporter, doesn't it worry you that you'll create an image the state is in such rotten shape you can't even take a leak?

"That's why we aren't doing it," Mr. Miller said, "because of the reaction it would generate."

That conversation came to mind when Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake) told the Detroit Free Press Michigan has too many roads and maybe some should be allowed to return to gravel. One presumes be deliberately returned to gravel instead of the chaotic natural way so many roads seem to be returning to gravel.

Is that really the image the state wants to present? 'Cause that is the image the state's going get, like it or not.

The reaction the idea has on social media isn't an enthusiastic rush to embrace gravel roads along with its potholes, mud pots, washboards, stones cracking windshields and unbreathable dust. Most reactions from ordinary folks can be summed up as, "Seriously? Are you seriously suggesting that?"

It does seem counterintuitive as a policy matter to suggest roads should revert to the finest technology of the 19th century. Of course, natural preservation of the environment is a worthy goal, and restoring habitats is as well a lofty public ambition. But were paved roads supposed to be part of that mix?

If Michigan decides sure, let's return a few roads to gravel, how would that proceed? What metrics would be involved? Would you have local fights from residents and businesses demanding their roads remain paved? Would local governments be able to appeal a decision? Wouldn't we see legislators, who once argued roads needed to be built in their areas, now arguing their roads needed to stay paved?

And again, what kind of image would that present? And would that be an image the state would be willing to dispute? If Ohio or Indiana or Wisconsin tries to attract businesses by showing off their beautiful roads (and compared to ours, well, it needs no further comment) and then saying what about Michigan? "Great place to locate if you're shipping freight by mule-train and buckboard."