An Act Concerning The Transportation Strategy Board.
Impact
The bill's enactment will modify existing laws to give the Transportation Strategy Board greater authority and mandate it to propose strategic plans to the General Assembly. This includes a requirement for the board to estimate the necessary funds and recommend additional revenue sources for the Special Transportation Fund. It may result in a more cohesive approach to transportation investments across the state, potentially improving efficiency and safety in infrastructure development.
Summary
House Bill 05460 proposes the establishment and operational independence of the Connecticut Transportation Strategy Board, which is responsible for long-term planning of the state's transportation needs. This bill aims to ensure that all available modes of transportation, including highways, air, water, and rail, are adequately considered in planning efforts. The bill is intended to enhance the board's capabilities in strategizing and implementing the state's transportation goals effectively.
Contention
Potential points of contention surrounding HB 05460 may stem from the board's increased independence and the implications it has for local planning agencies. Critics might argue that this centralization could undermine local control, as the board's authority to create guidelines for Transportation Investment Areas (TIAs) might limit the autonomy of these local agencies. Discussions may arise about ensuring that community-specific transportation needs are adequately represented in statewide planning.
Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.