Connecticut Senate Bill SB00068

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/12
• Refer: 2/15/12

Caption

An Act Redirecting Authorized Bonds Of The State From The Busway To Repairing The State's Roads And Bridges.

Impact

The bill's impact is primarily on state transportation statutes, altering how bond funds are allocated in the state. By shifting the focus from the busway project to repairing roads and bridges, SB00068 aligns state funding with immediate practical needs within the transportation domain. Stakeholders argue that focusing on existing infrastructure will yield quicker improvements in safety and usability for residents, addressing critical concerns regarding the state’s current infrastructure conditions.

Summary

SB00068, titled 'An Act Redirecting Authorized Bonds Of The State From The Busway To Repairing The State's Roads And Bridges,' seeks to amend the state's use of bond funds originally designated for the Hartford to New Britain busway project. The bill proposes redirecting these funds towards the Department of Transportation specifically for the purpose of repairing existing state roads and bridges. This plan aims to enhance the overall condition of the state's transportation infrastructure by refocusing the financial resources where they are deemed more necessary.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB00068 include debates regarding the prioritization of transportation projects in the state. Advocates of the busway project and public transit supporters might argue that redirecting funds undermines efforts to improve mass transit options. In contrast, proponents of the road and bridge repairs emphasize the urgent need for maintaining and upgrading existing roadways to ensure public safety and support economic activity. The discussion highlights differing philosophies about transportation planning, whether to enhance public transit or invest in traditional road infrastructure.