IHCC response to MDOT

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

In February, Township officials met with a representative from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to discuss serious concerns about the proposed use of M-124 as a haul route for the American Aggregates of Michigan (AAOM) mining application. What we learned raises significant concerns for our community.

1. MDOT Cannot Prohibit Trucks.  Despite the risks to residents and visitors, MDOT made it clear they cannot prohibit trucks on M-124. Because the road receives federal funding and is located within one mile of the National Truck Network (US-12 and M-50), state and federal regulations require it to remain open to all legal-sized vehicles, regardless of origin or destination.

2. Summer Traffic Significantly Higher Than Study Data.  For months, concerns have been raised about AAOM’s traffic study, which was conducted on a single day in February. MDOT has confirmed that traffic on M-124 is approximately 46% higher in the summer than during the winter period studied. While MDOT maintains the road is technically “below capacity,” vehicle capacity does not equal safety, especially when the road in question runs along lakes, next to a bike lane, and through a State Park.

3. No “Safety” Upgrades Planned.  Many residents have asked about potential safety improvements. Unfortunately, MDOT shared the following:

• Traffic Signals: Current and projected truck volumes are below the threshold required to justify a signal along M-124, even with an additional 18 trucks per hour travelling the route.
• Speed Limits: Requesting a formal speed study could backfire. Under state law, such studies often result in higher speed limits, based on current driving behavior, rather than reductions for safety.

4. No Financial Protection for Road Damage.  MDOT also confirmed they cannot require AAOM to provide a performance bond to cover road damage caused by heavy truck traffic. While seasonal “frost laws” temporarily limit truck weight, there is no mechanism to hold the company financially responsible for long-term deterioration of M-124.

5. Township Takeover of M-124 Is Not Feasible.  The idea of the Township taking ownership of M-124 to restrict truck traffic was discussed. MDOT described this process as highly complex and likely requiring repayment of previously invested state and federal funds, while also forfeiting future maintenance support.

What’s Next?

These findings make one thing clear: we cannot rely on state agencies to protect our roads and community from these impacts. The responsibility falls on Norvell Township to carefully evaluate this proposal and exercise its authority to deny the permit based on very serious consequences, including those outlined above.

The Jackson County Department of Transportation is still currently developing requirements for the parts of the proposed haul routes it controls. We will share more information as it becomes available.Thank you for your continued interest and involvement in this important issue. We will keep the community updated as this process evolves and as plans and actions are developed.

– Irish Hill Concerned Citizens

IHCC’s mission is to protect Watkins Lake State Park & County Preserve, its birds and wildlife, and the rural character of the surrounding region.

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