To the long list of problems that Michigan needs to fix, add an even longer list of bad bridges. The Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association this week released new data showing that 28 percent of state and local bridges in the state are either structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. That's more than 3,000 of the nearly 11,000 bridges maintained by the state or local governments. An example closer to home: In Ingham County, 44 of 95 locally maintained bridges are in poor condition.

Fuel-efficient vehicles and a weakening economy have reduced the state's gas tax revenue - the money that typically funds road and bridge repairs.

The state cannot afford to let its bridges crumble. Doing so is a safety issue, not to mention a deterrent to economic development. The next governor and Legislature must make this a real priority.

Reasons for positive outlook

Michiganians are experiencing a more upbeat turn to their attitude about the economy, according the most recent State of the State Survey from the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research at Michigan State University. The survey, reported by Gongwer News Service, found 54.8 percent believe they will be better off financially a year from now; that's the largest percentage since 2004. In addition, 48.5 percent characterized their current financial condition as excellent or good, up from 43.6 percent last year. Need more? The latest Michigan Retail Index found 58 percent of retailers expect improved holiday sales this year.

Keep up Asian carp fight

Good news for Michigan and its neighboring states in the push to keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed a barrier in Illinois waterways to keep the carp from getting into the Chicago Canal. While praising the Corps' action, U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow called for quick action to permanently separate the Mississippi River water system from the Great Lakes. Asian carp pose a serious threat to the Great Lakes. The Corps must continue to act with that in mind.

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