Frequently Asked Questions

 

How much money is provided to the 18 townships for cost sharing by the Road Commission?

$300,000.00

 

 

 

How is the money distributed to the 18 towships in Lapeer County?

Cost sharing for use on local roads by townships is based on a formula of 65% mileage and 35% population. (Same formula as Act 51 uses for dispersing funds to use on local roads) This split occurs after a 75/25 percent split for primary/local roads. Primary roads receive this amount as they bear 75% of the traffic.

 

How do I get my road paved?

Primary Roads- selected on a pavement inventory rating which takes into consideration the physical condition of the road, the average daily traffic and the physical ride ability of the pavement.

Local Roads- selected by the townships based on the concern of the public and the amount of money that they have available to cost share with the Road Commission.

How do I initiate a road project?

Residents may petition the Road Commission for an improvement by special assessment, with 51% of the property owners signing the petition. Otherwise, Lapeer County Road Commission projects must be requested by the townships. Contact your local township.

 

How do I get a driveway permit?

Download a copy from the " Permits " page of our web site or call us at (810) 664-6272.

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If the Township does not have any money to pave my roads, are there any other options?

Normally Federal and State money is available for use on the primary road system. As for the local road system, the townships have the ability to assess the property owner for the cost of construction if they are petitioned by the home owners.

 

How does the Road Commission receive its revenue?

1) Primarily gas tax and vehicle registration fees, 2) Federal/State Grants, 3) Township match, and 4) Other private sources.

 

When do weight restriction go into effect and when are they lifted?

Normally Mid February to May depending on the weather. Generally speaking, it is the time period when the frost is coming out of the ground. You can also visit CRAM's website.

 

Why do we need to place weight restrictions?

To protect our roads during the time that the frost melts and leaves the sub-base of the road in a soft condition.

 

Why does it take so long to get my road plowed?

We plow Primary Roads first, Secondary Roads second and Subdivisions third. Due to our limited resources, it can take up to 3 days before we can plow subdivision roads.

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What do I do if I have a dead deer or small animal in my ditch or on the road?

The Road Commission will move the animal off the traveled portion of the roadway; however, we are not responsible for picking up animals and disposing of them.

 

What happens if my vehicle is damaged by flying debris from a Road Commission truck or Road Commission project done by contractors?

Please come to the Road Commission and fill out an Incident Report. It will then be turned over to the Road Commission Insurance Company, and you will receive a response in writing.

 

What is the Road Commission Right-of-Way?

Generally it is 33 feet from the section line of the road in both directions. Usually the section line and the center line are relatively close.

 

Why can't I put my fence or rocks next to the road?

Objects must be placed outside of the right-of-way, due to liability concerns.

 

Why can’t I place concrete to the edge of the road for my driveway?

The Road Commission trucks, while plowing snow on non-curb and gutter roads, may catch the edge of the concrete with their underbody snow blade. This can cause injury to the driver and damage to the truck.

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Why can't I place a brick structure around my mailbox?

This places a hazard for not only the Road Commission trucks, but also for all of the traveling public, should they veer off the road.

 

Who initiates addresses for new homes?

Check with Township.

 

Who maintains the railroad crossings?

The appropriate railroad company. Usually there is a small metal placket located on the crossbuck (railroad crossing) sign adjacent to the track with this information.

 

Who is responsible for constructing and maintaining sidewalks?

The Township and/or residents depending on the Township ordinance.

 

How do I obtain a county map?

Lapeer County Road Commission administrative office- $1.00 each; or, by mail is $1.00 each plus postage. Please call for current postage rates at our office, (810) 664-6272

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Who is responsible for placing and maintaining signs in mobile home parks, private businesses, malls, etc.?

The company must place them since the Road Commission has no jurisdiction over these types of locations.

 

Who determines speed limits and how can I get my speed limit changed?

The request is initiated by the Township to the Road Commission. Thereafter, it is examined by the Road Commission and the Michigan State Police. They conduct a speed study and recommend a speed limit.

 

How do I get my gravel road graded?

This is done on a routine basis; however, you can call the Road Commission office at (810) 664-6272 regarding this matter.

 

How do I get my road regraveled or brined?

Please call your Township.

 

 

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