This year’s $20.7 billion budget largely neglected core infrastructure needs, choosing instead to expand state funding on many programs that will benefit special interests. This neglect is no more obvious than in the area of transportation. While a number of transportation bills were offered during the 2007 legislative session, most were overlooked or shelved for subsequent sessions. Only one relatively important piece of transportation legislation passed; although other bills remain in play for 2008. The FY2007-09 budget also contained two key policy changes: 1) a phase-out of annual transfers from the Highway Trust Fund to the General Fund; and 2) a cap on the motor fuels tax. Because the 2007 session was marked by so little activity in the area of transportation, members of the General Assembly are currently considering a special session on transportation.
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Great recap on transportation issues facing NC!
Please view http://www.ncports.net and its PowerPoint Links and other coastal states activities Links.
Planners of Research Triangle’s transit and transportation systems seem doomed to fail because of their limited and “in a box” views.
Commuter rail service (on existing rails) offers a way to lower per rider c cost and reaching out to heavy rider range (those who value work time en route) and tap large population concentration in rural towns where jobs are much in need.
Stopping at 28 miles in current stated plans, is ironically, just where ridership curves take a drastic upturn.
Add fact the Federal programs provide funds for inter-city and Intra- city rail, and that improvements will benefit freight routes. Then, there is potential for funds from outlying cities and counties.
A win-win way to go.