The Midland Area Transportation Study (MATS) has released a new analysis comparing road and bridge conditions across Michigan and within the MATS area between 2021 and 2024. Using data from the Transportation Asset Management Council (TAMC) Dashboard, the report highlights important trends in pavement and bridge health that guide local and statewide investment decisions.

Roads:
The Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating (PASER) system shows that, statewide, road conditions have been relatively stable, but with a gradual increase in roads rated “Good.” In the MATS area, improvements are more pronounced, particularly on county roads, where the share of “Good” roads now outpaces the statewide average. City and village roads remain the most challenged, but recent data suggests a positive turnaround with fewer “Poor” ratings than in past years.

Bridges:
Bridge conditions present a more mixed picture. Across Michigan, most bridges remain in “Fair” condition, but the share of bridges in “Severe” condition has increased since 2021. Locally, trunkline bridges in Midland, Bay, and Saginaw counties follow statewide trends, while county-owned bridges show greater signs of deterioration. Municipal bridges, such as those in Midland and Sanford, remain stable with nearly all rated “Fair.”