Falk Applauds Legislature for Allowing Dane County RTA to Fund Road Projects

June 11, 2009
Joshua Wescott, Office of the County Executive (608) 267-8823 or cell (608) 669-5606
County Executive

Pending Voter Approval, State Budget Amendment Would Mean Better Roads, More Transportation Options for Dane County

The State Budget bill voted on by lawmakers in the State Assembly today would enable Dane County to make comprehensive improvements to its transportation system.

Thanks to a budget amendment from State Representative Sondy Pope-Roberts, funding collected through an RTA could be used for local road projects in addition to improving transportation options like buses, commuter rail, and para-transit.

“Given Dane County is the fastest growing county in the state, it’s critical we have the most efficient and safest transportation system to help people get around,” County Executive Kathleen Falk said.  “Comprehensive transportation improvements including better roads, more buses, para-transit, and rail is good for business and people getting to work --  it also reduces pressure on property taxes.”

Just last week, Thrive, a coalition promoting economic development throughout the Dane County region, announced its support for creation of an RTA writing in part:

“the region will be at a competitive disadvantage in the present and future without an RTA to shape and fund a regional transportation system, especially within a global economy.”

In addition to ensuring a half-cent sales tax from an RTA wouldn’t move forward without the approval of voters through a referendum, Falk had lobbied lawmakers to have funding for roads included in the RTA legislation.

“With nearly a half-million people in our county and 30,000 more who drive into Dane County for work everyday, having the most state of the art transportation system is a must.  While Dane County voters will have the final say, legislative approval is the next important step toward allowing these necessary improvements,” Falk said. 

#  #  #