Midland flood infrastructure funding: State lawmaker requests $20M for flood?prone communities
State Rep. Schuette presses for new funding to rebuild dams and install flood protection systems in Midland

State Representative Bill G. Schuette has formally requested $10 million for repairs to dams managed by the Four Lakes Task Force, and another $10 million to develop flood?reduction infrastructure for Midland and parts of Gladwin County, according to a press release issued on July?24,?2025.

Schuette testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity, emphasizing the catastrophic consequences of the 2020 dam failures in Midland County. “This devastating flooding destroyed the homes and lives of thousands,” he said. “This project has previously received investments from the state and federal sources, but we need additional funds to reduce the financial burden on those who lost so much in these floods.” (Schuette press release, 2025)

The Four Lakes Task Force, established in response to the 2020 disaster, oversees repairs to dams that failed under record rainfall. Schuette noted that rebuilding must ensure stronger structures to avoid repeat incidents. He described the state’s fiscal request as tackling “two sides of a coin,” involving both reconstruction and protection for vulnerable communities. (Schuette press release)

Midland’s legacy?flood vulnerability demands new protective systems

Midland faces acute legacy flooding, a condition where repeated inundation persists due to geography and aging infrastructure. The city lies at the confluence of four rivers, increasing its exposure to water surges, especially after dam collapse. Schuette compared the city’s potential solutions to systems already installed in places like San Antonio, Texas, where authorities have added pump stations, floodways, and debris removal programs. He argued Michigan should adopt similar measures. (Schuette press release)

2020 Midland flood inflicted widespread disruption and damage

In May 2020, floods resulting from dam failures displaced thousands and threatened essential services. The Tridge, Midland’s iconic three?way pedestrian bridge, was submerged. Many residents had to evacuate as one of the region’s largest hospitals faced potential flooding, posing risks to patient care and public health.

Funding gap remains despite prior state and federal support

Schuette acknowledged past investments from state and federal agencies but urged more funding to relieve the financial burden on residents who lost property and income. “We also must ensure that homeowners and property owners … are able to once again enjoy a treasure of our region but do so in a way that minimizes the financial burden.”

Expert commentary underscores urgency for resiliency funding

“Much of the nation’s stormwater infrastructure… can exacerbate flooding during the severe weather events that are increasing around the globe,” noted Professor Valeriy Ivanov and Assistant Research Scientist Vinh Tran, both in the University of Michigan Civil and Environmental Engineering department. They explain that traditional, localized stormwater systems often fail to account for interconnected flooding effects, leading to unintended consequences in severe events—a rationale underscoring the need for regional, integrated flood mitigation investments in Michigan.

Federal agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have repeatedly warned that aging dams and flood controls require urgent modernization. National data shows that every dollar spent on mitigation yields up to $11 in avoided costs (FEMA, Mitigation Saves). (No verified source found.)

Budget request aligns with broader Michigan flood concerns

Michigan grapples with aging water infrastructure, increasing storm intensities, and sprawling development near waterways. Recent severe storms in Saginaw Bay and southern Michigan counties underscore similar vulnerabilities to those Midland faces. In May 2024, floods affected multiple communities along the Tittabawassee River, prompting local officials to seek updated flood-control strategies. (No verified source found.)

The proposed $20 million request is now pending before state budget negotiators in Lansing. If approved, funds would flow to the Task Force and local agencies responsible for design and construction of pump stations, levees or diversion channels. Local officials were not quoted as yet. All funds would remain within Michigan. The state legislature’s final budget decisions are expected in the fall session.

Your Turn – Like This, or Hate it – We Want To Hear From You

Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. We review each response. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your email box, or check us out at ThumbWind News