Authorizes and empower the department of transportation to plant pollinator friendly native species of trees, shrubs, grasses and plants within limits of a roadway, including state highways.
Impact
The implementation of S0510 is expected to positively influence state laws by formalizing the role of the Department of Transportation in enhancing roadside aesthetics while supporting local ecosystems. By mandating the inclusion of native and pollinator-friendly plants, the bill aligns road maintenance with broader environmental goals. The bill seeks to address critical issues such as habitat protection for pollinators and the beautification of public spaces, ultimately contributing to state policies focused on sustainability and ecological resilience.
Summary
Bill S0510 aims to amend Section 24-8-11 of the General Laws regarding the construction and maintenance of state roads in Rhode Island. The bill uniquely empowers the Department of Transportation to beautify state highways and other road areas by planting trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. A significant aspect of the bill is the emphasis on utilizing pollinator-friendly native species when appropriate, promoting environmental health and biodiversity. This initiative is particularly notable as it reflects a growing trend towards integrating ecological considerations into infrastructure projects.
Contention
While the bill primarily appears to advance environmental objectives, there may be points of contention regarding resource allocation. Critics could argue that the funds used for these beautification efforts might detract from essential road maintenance tasks. Furthermore, there could be varying opinions on the types of plants being implemented, with some stakeholders possibly advocating for non-native species due to their low maintenance and rapid growth. The balance between aesthetic enhancements and practical road management remains a discussion point as the bill progresses.
Provides that low-speed vehicles may be operated on limited access highways, state highways, through highways and public highways or roadways provided the speed limit on the highways and roadways is no more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 m.p.h.).
Allows the department of environmental management to remove freshwater non-native and invasive aquatic plants and assist municipalities in preventing the growth and spread of these and other invasive species in the freshwater lakes and ponds.