Monroe Review

State Representative Jamie Thompson announced the commencement of a train underpass project on Allen Road in Woodhaven, marking a significant step forward for a community long faced with delays and commute disruptions. Thompson expressed satisfaction with the project's initiation, emphasizing its anticipated benefits for traffic flow and emergency response times.

"I have heard a ton from people throughout the Woodhaven area over the past few years about 'that damn train' and when this was going to get started. I made it a top priority when I began serving in the Legislature to keep people informed regarding where this project stood while working to get answers and timelines on multiple holdups the project experienced," Thompson stated. "I am pleased the first phase of this project is underway. This portion of Allen Road sees thousands of vehicles per day. Having this underpass will improve response times for emergency personnel as they work throughout the community to keep people safe and save lives. It will also help with traffic congestion and ensure those trips out and about or to and from work are shorter."

She assured constituents of continued updates on the project's progress.

Thompson is known for her efforts in enhancing local infrastructure. She has supported legislation within House Bills 4180-87 and 4230, which aims to allocate over $3 billion annually for road repairs without imposing new taxes or incurring additional debt. The funds will be drawn from existing tax revenue, streamlining resources like the Strategic Outreach Attraction Reserve fund towards road improvement.

This funding plan promises to direct approximately 80% of the reallocated resources to local road agencies, with Woodhaven expected to receive a $2 million increase. The proposal, having garnered bipartisan support, now awaits consideration in the Senate.