Over the next few years, you may find yourself driving on roads that are made more from rubber than asphalt.

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Roads Made From Old Tires

According to the Lansing State Journal, Michigan state officials have announced a $2 million grant for road projects that will incorporate the use of old tires as a base for select road construction projects.

Right now, the practice is in its infancy, and because it's still considered experimental, using rubber from old tires as a base for roads will be something that's only used on small, local projects. At this point, the practice can't be used for road projects that get federal funding.

M. Emin Kutay is an engineering professor at Michigan State University. He says it will likely take some time for the practice to catch on.

"Typically our paving industry is slow to new things," he said. "They want to see it long-term first."

 

The Benefits of Rubber Roads

Kutay says experiments from the past decade are showing promise. He notes that paving mixtures that incorporate rubber can produce roads that are quieter and longer lasting. He notes that keeping tires out of landfills is another benefit and adds that roads made with a rubber mixture can maintain a black hue longer than conventional asphalt mixtures.

Rubber Road Already in Use

The Journal reports that Ingham County recently received a grant worth nearly $38,000 which has been used to rebuild about 750 feet of road built on top of a shredded tire base in the County.

 

Small Town Bliss! Inside Michigan's Top Airbnb in Buchanan

Michigan has some amazing options when it comes to getaway rentals, but some are just heads and tails above the rest. Recently Jones Around the World, a global adventure travel & music festival blog, highlighted its choices for the Top 20 Airbnbs in Michigan. Taking the top spot as Best Airbnb in Michigan wasn't a big city or lakeside retreat, but a charming loft apartment in the small town of Buchanan, Michigan. Not just any Airbnb, but an Airbnb Plus rental, this is truly one very cool rental. The 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom loft accommodates 6 guests in a unique & trendy apartment where details are king. Details to design take this place to a whole other level of chic.

See the Must-Drive Roads in Every State

Michigan's Highest Rated Airbnb is a Charming Country Getaway

The "Top Rated Airbnb in Michigan" is a quaint little spot that channels that sweet northern Michigan country charm. Perfectly located in Traverse City not far from downtown and all the action, this Airbnb is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to unplug and recharge. According to the list of "The Top Rated Airbnbs in Each State" by the travel site Savoteur, the top-rated Airbnbs aren't necessarily the most expensive or the biggest, but those that get the best reviews from guests and offer an incredible experience. This farm setting screams relaxation with space for 2 in a charming studio apartment. The grounds of the farm are yours to explore and enjoy including picking fresh fruit and vegetables from the organic garden and interacting with the playful goats! Take look!

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