Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• What is MI-FAST?

  MI-FAST (Michigan Innovative Finance Asset Scan for Transportation) is an exploratory study led by MDOT that looks at the lifecycle costs of needed Michigan transportation projects and estimates the benefits of new revenue to accelerate those projects. Ultimately, MI-FAST will help educate decision-makers and the public on the benefits of adequate long-term and sustainable transportation funding.

• How many projects are being considered?

  The study will review up to 170 candidate projects from across all seven MDOT regions. Of those, up to 12 candidate projects will be selected for evaluation of cost, community priorities and other feasibility factors.

• What types of projects are included?

  Projects may include highways, bridges, rail and other major transportation assets. Candidate projects will be selected from MDOT’s Five-Year Transportation Program, unfunded needs lists, stakeholder engagement and ongoing studies.

• Does MI-FAST build or fund the selected projects?

  MI-FAST does not provide funding for project construction. Instead, it studies options, identifies opportunities for new funding or partnerships, and develops tools to help MDOT draw attention to unfunded projects across Michigan.

• Why is this study needed now?

  There are critical MDOT projects around Michigan that could improve asset condition and safety if adequate funding was available. MI-FAST will explore innovative delivery options that could be applied to accelerate needed projects.

• Who is involved in this effort?

  The USDOT Build America Bureau is the grant sponsor. MDOT is the program sponsor and grant recipient, supported by the Michigan Infrastructure Office. HNTB serves as technical advisor while another consultant serves as financial advisor.

• How does MI-FAST relate to other MDOT transportation plans?

  MI-FAST is not a replacement for transportation planning efforts. It builds on existing statewide, regional and project-specific transportation plans by adding a financial and delivery lens. In other words, MI-FAST utilizes the priorities already identified in current MDOT plans and studies to determine how projects could be delivered sooner or through new approaches.

• How can the public get involved?

  MDOT will share updates on the MI-FAST study and gather feedback on candidate projects through this study website. Throughout the study, community members are encouraged to provide feedback through MDOT’s Public Involvement Management Application (PIMA) form linked on this website. Individuals can also subscribe for study updates through PIMA.