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Local Government

The Elsie village township hall.
Department of Transportation

Local Government

While MDOT has jurisdiction over all M, I, and U.S. routes, many of these roads play an important part of Michigan's local communities. At MDOT, we believe that strong partnerships build a better Michigan infrastructure system. That is why MDOT is committed to working with local governments (cities, villages, counties) on grant and economic development opportunities, assist with project coordination, and help ensure compliance with state and federal requirements. The department also administers and coordinates state and federal funding for local road agencies. 

This information is intended for local governments that need to do business with MDOT.  

Indian Lakes Road during autumn in Kent County.

Act 51

Act 51 is the main road funding source for most cities and villages. Act 51 defines the formula by which Michigan distributes money for road maintenance to cities, villages, and counties.

Act 51
2nd Street Bridge over Kalamazoo River in Allegan County

Local Agency Program

MDOT administers the local allocation of federal and state aid programs and is responsible for the development of statewide processes for the implementation of all required state and federal regulations as it relates to local agencies.

Local Agency Program
Overhead view of asphalt paving.

LAP Construction

Serves as an information source and assists local agencies in preserving state & federal aid in a fair and consistent manner.

Local Agency Program Construction
Michigan State Capitol building.

Governmental Agreements

Agreements between MDOT and local governments (cities, villages, county road commissions, drainage districts, and townships).

Governmental Agreements
The Odowa Pow-Wow festival in Harbor Springs, Michigan.

Tribal Affairs

MDOT has ongoing government-to-government communication with 12 federally recognized sovereign tribal governments whose lands are situated within Michigan.

Tribal Affairs
TAP project Dodge Park Bridge over Clinton River Sterling Heights.

Grant programs

MDOT provides funding for competitive grant and loan programs primarily, but not exclusively, for state and local road agencies for the greatest impact on economic development and job creation.

Grant programs