MCDOT Director Donna Brown-Martin’s Statement to the Joint Finance Committee Public Hearing on the Governor’s 2025-27 Biennial Budget
Milwaukee - On Friday, April 4, 2025, Milwaukee County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Director Donna Brown-Martin addressed the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee during a public hearing related to the state's upcoming 2025-2027 Biennial Budget.
“Members of the Joint Finance Committee, thank you for being here today. My name is Donna Brown-Martin. As Commissioner of the Wisconsin County Highway Association’s Southeast District and Director of the Milwaukee County Department of Transportation, your support for state and local transportation programs is key to fueling the economic engine of Wisconsin.
“Past investments, like the Zoo interchange and I-94 East-West projects, have helped drive our freight and commercial industries. Looking ahead, your continued support will be critical to sustaining a transportation network that grows our economy and brings more travelers safely across the state. As the Wisconsin Policy Forum noted in December, our road quality is at risk if a transportation funding gap is not addressed.
“Specifically, I am asking you to support the proposals related to Routine Maintenance Agreements (RMA), and General Transportation Aids (GTA), as well as the Local Roads Improvement Program (LRIP), particularly for LRIP Supplemental funding.
“Not everyone knows this, but unique to Wisconsin, counties maintain state roadways. When you travelled here this morning, I hope you noticed the efficient, well-maintained interstate lanes and interchanges on I-94. That’s because the work to mow, plow, and otherwise maintain that roadway is performed by Milwaukee County staff.
“Through RMAs, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation reimburses the county for this work. Over the years, these reimbursements have struggled to cover the costs to perform this work. With costs rising, we are reaching an impasse.
“On GTA, Milwaukee County relies on this critical funding to assist in maintaining the county trunk highway system, which are essential in linking the state system as a whole. Local property tax limits, inflation and mandated services have made it a challenge to meet the needs of the system in my county and in many across the state.
“The result is deferred maintenance, which could lead to a decline road quality, which can have major implications on our economy and on the safety of traveling public.
“Thank you for the opportunity to be here and for your consideration. “