State Representative Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) returned to the Capitol Thursday to deliver a second round of testimony before the House Appropriations Subcommittee, continuing her push for key public safety and infrastructure funding in the 78th House District.

 

Johnsen is advocating for three major investments: $10 million for a new Barry County Public Safety Facility, $18 million to expand Ionia County’s emergency radio system, and $2.54 million to replace a failing 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 Barry County project would replace an aging jail and sheriff’s office with a modern facility that would improve security, staff safety, and emergency preparedness. In Ionia County, the proposed radio upgrades would fill critical communication gaps that currently endanger first responders in low-coverage areas. The Brown Road bridge replacement will improve driver safety and restore environmental health to the river corridor.

 

Joining Johnsen in support of the proposals were Lance Langdon, Director of Ionia County Central Dispatch, Barry County Administrator Eric Zuzga, Barry County Board of Commissioners Chair David Jackson, and Dave Liddell of the Barry County Road Commission, each of whom testified to the urgent need for investment in their respective areas.

 

“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 led by local governments and meet constitutional guidelines for public benefit. Johnsen said she will continue working to ensure that rural Michigan receives the attention and investment it deserves.

 

State Rep. Gina Johnsen testifies alongside Barry County Board of Commissioners Chair Dave Jackson in support of funding for a new public safety facility to serve the growing needs of Barry County. Photo courtesy of the office of state Rep. Gina Johnsen.

 

 

 

Rep. Gina Johnsen and Ionia County Central Dispatch Director Lance Langdon advocate for critical upgrades to emergency communications infrastructure in Ionia County. Photo courtesy of the office of state Rep. Gina Johnsen.