Snowy Roads, Code Blue Costs, and Political Moves Highlight Mid-Michigan News

Snowy road conditions caused dozens of crashes across mid-Michigan on Monday, keeping road crews busy as winter weather continues to impact the region. Lansing Public Service Director Andy Kilpatrick said the city has been managing its salt supply carefully during the ongoing bitter cold snap.  Speaking on 1320 WILS, Kilpatrick explained that Lansing has been using chloride sand instead of large amounts of salt due to the low temperatures. As a result, the city currently has just under 1,000 tons less salt on hand than usual for this point in the season. Under more typical winter conditions in the 20-degree range, the city would use between 150 and 200 tons of salt per weather event.

 

Cold weather is also placing a financial strain on the city as Code Blue remains in effect, as it has for much of the winter. Lansing continues to operate warming centers, including the Letts Community Center, with staffing support from organizations such as Advent House.  Mayor Andy Schor told 1320 WILS that the costs associated with Code Blue operations are paid for with taxpayer dollars. He noted that while the city is committed to helping those in need, many individuals using the warming centers come from outside Lansing, adding to the financial challenge.

 

In state politics, the Michigan gubernatorial race is seeing new developments. Businessman Perry Johnson has announced he is running for governor for a second consecutive election cycle. The timing of Johnson’s announcement could affect Republican front-runner John James.  Capitol correspondent Kyle Melinn reported on 1320 WILS that James is currently on a statewide tour but now faces increased competition. Johnson has indicated he plans to spend $9 million on his campaign—potentially double what James may be able to spend.

 

Drivers across the state are seeing some relief at the pump. Michigan’s average gas price is $2.86 per gallon, down about 10 cents from last week. In the Lansing area, the average price is slightly lower at $2.82 per gallon, according to AAA Michigan spokeswoman Adrienne Woodland.

 

The 2026 Detroit Auto Show wrapped up Sunday night, marking the end of this year’s event. Glenn Stevens of the Detroit Regional Chamber’s MichAuto division spoke with 1320 WILS today and highlighted the growing influence of Formula 1 in the automotive world, particularly for Ford and Cadillac. Stevens noted that Formula 1 boasts nearly 900 million regular viewers globally, underscoring its growing marketing impact on the industry.