TRANSPORTATION FORWARD STATEMENT ON HOUSE PROPOSAL

St. Paul, Minnesota ( May 17, 2016 ) – Transportation Forward, a coalition of Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota community leaders, responded to today's transportation budget proposal from House Republicans by urging the legislature to make a deal that would fund the variety of transportation modes used by all Minnesotans.

As the legislature and Governor negotiate over transportation funding in the final days of the legislative session, the coalition released this statement in response to House Republican leadership's plan:

“We appreciate the offer from House leadership and their acknowledgment that a transportation solution needs to include dedicated funds, such as tab fees. But the House offer provides very little dedicated funding for roads and bridges, relying heavily on the general fund. It also oddly proposes waiting till later to focus on transit, bicycling, and walking. This is not a reasonable approach and should be rejected. Transportation systems include multiple modes. Minnesotans choose and rely on not only driving but also transit and safe walking and bicycling—in Greater Minnesota and the metro area.

The clock is ticking. We call on the legislature to find a solution that funds all modes, statewide: transit and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure along with roads and bridges. In this last week of session, we think Minnesotans want to see more productivity and less partisanship. They want the legislature to finally get transportation done—and done right,” said Transportation Forward Chair, Dave Van Hattum.

Transportation funding is especially crucial in this legislative session. Current funding lags behind existing needs, a problem that will be exacerbated as the population of the state continues to grow. Costs will only get higher. Whether Minnesota can create affordable, accessible, and well maintained transportation infrastructure will impact economic health and quality of life for residents around the state.

About Us

Transportation Forward is a statewide campaign of more than 50 organizations dedicated to building broad support for new investments in all modes of transportation in Minnesota, in the belief that transportation underpins quality of life, the way our communities function, access to economic opportunity, and the health of our residents and the environment. For more information, visit http://leercommunication.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d%3a18197-%3eLCE59%2b34A%26SDG%3c90%3a.&RE=MC&RI=4229045&Preview=False&DistributionActionID=325229&Action=Follow+Link.