SE Grand Rapids News

State Representative Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) appeared before the House Appropriations Subcommittee for a second time to advocate for increased funding for public safety and infrastructure in Michigan’s 78th House District.

Johnsen is seeking legislative approval for three main projects: $10 million to construct a new Barry County Public Safety Facility, $18 million to upgrade Ionia County’s emergency radio system, and $2.54 million to replace the Brown Road bridge over the Little Thornapple River in Woodland Township.

“The people of my district deserve safe roads, reliable emergency response, and public safety infrastructure that works,” Johnsen said. “These are not luxuries. They are basic, core functions of government.”

The proposed Barry County facility would replace an outdated jail and sheriff’s office with a modern building designed to enhance security and emergency preparedness. The funding for Ionia County would address communication gaps among first responders by expanding the county’s emergency radio coverage. The bridge replacement project aims to improve driver safety and restore environmental health along the river corridor.

Lance Langdon, Director of Ionia County Central Dispatch; Eric Zuzga, Barry County Administrator; David Jackson, Chair of the Barry County Board of Commissioners; and Dave Liddell from the Barry County Road Commission joined Johnsen at the hearing to support these investments. Each highlighted specific needs within their areas during their testimony.

“These projects reflect real needs in our rural communities,” Johnsen said. “They’re shovel-ready, community-driven, and will be built to last.”

All three proposals are managed by local governments and comply with constitutional requirements for serving public interests. Johnsen emphasized her ongoing commitment to ensuring that rural areas in Michigan receive adequate attention and investment.