Infrastructure in the News: November 1, 2011
NATIONAL NEWS
Huffington Post: Job Creation Is Up to the States
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/richard-brodsky/job-creation-states-_b_1067876.html
A real alternative to Washington's inaction is raising its head in New York: A state jobs programs is being talked about. Its' elements are easy to put together. Road, bridge, mass transit and flooding infrastructure investments, small business tax credits, retaining teachers and public employees who provide essential services, youth job programs, green job stimulus, and other practical and sensible ways of putting people to work and providing needed investment and services are stirring real interest.
STATE NEWS
Fast Lane: Michigan Rail Summit: an opportunity to discuss critical transportation investments
http://fastlane.dot.gov/2011/11/michigan-rail-summit.html
This week, the United States Senate will have the opportunity to vote on the transportation provisions of the American Jobs Act. At the same time, across the country, local leaders are having conversations about how transportation contributes to economic competitiveness. Some are talking about how they'll find the money to repair local roads and bridges to get businesses better access to customers and suppliers. Others are talking about developing modern freight and passenger rail service as a key part of improving the economy.
Detroit News: Better roads, bridges will boost the state's economy
The state is running out of time to improve its failing grade on infrastructure. It cannot afford to wait any longer to make the necessary repairs. The governor's proposal to significantly increase infrastructure investment by at least $1 billion annually through a $10 per month hike in vehicle registration fees — if approved by the legislature — is the kind of action needed. Quite simply, better roads lead to better jobs and a more prosperous outlook for the state. By proposing a wholesale tax on fuel to replace the current 19-cents-per-gallon state gas tax and 15-cents-per-gallon diesel tax, the governor is correct in trying to build a more viable long-term approach to funding.
Detroit News: Editorial: Road spending reforms needed
Most of the focus on Gov. Rick Snyder's message on infrastructure investment has been on his proposal for a new way of taxing gasoline purchases or the continuing controversy over a new international bridge across the Detroit River. But the governor also rightly discussed ways to streamline the way highways and roads are managed and taxes are delivered.
-
William Millar, former President of the American Public Transportation Association Get The Facts
“Increased use of public transportation is the single most effective way to reduce America's energy consumption, and it does not require any new taxes, government mandates or regulations.”
-
West Virginia
John Unger II
State Senator, District 16
View All
