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Driving down nearly 7% in Michigan

Steve Carmody/Michigan Radio

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Advocates say Michigan policymakers should wake up to the fact that residents are driving less and start focusing on public transit and biking alternatives.

Per-person driving miles in Michigan are down nearly 7% since 2005. It's a trend occurring across the U.S.

Some researchers say the changes are mostly a reflection of the economy and driving could bounce back. Others say the decline in driving reflects fundamental changes in the way Americans view the automobile.

The PIRGIM Education Fund, a consumer group, released a report last week saying now's the time to spend more on public transit and other non-driving modes of transportation in Michigan. Some advocates question why the state spends so much on highway construction.

But others say Michigan highways are deteriorating and need maintenance.

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting.
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