Posted on 02/02/2007 5:31:34 AM PST by Tolerance Sucks Rocks
Toll-road financing (SB 256): The growing practice of contracting with private entities to build and operate toll roads calls for hefty upfront payments. For example, the State Highway 121 project, under way in Collin and Denton counties, should produce about $2 billion in advance money that local governments can use for other vital improvements that the state can't fund anytime soon.
This bill would outlaw up-front payments, thus inhibiting the ability to start separate projects immediately. It would also put up a roadblock to the proposed, privately operated Trans-Texas Corridor, a reliever turnpike for the overburdened I-35. Neither would be a good outcome.
Many Texans have been in a lather about the expanded use of toll roads – especially the pioneering corridor project – and contend that public-private partnerships are not in the state's best interest. It's fine if Mr. Carona's provocative legislation stirs discussion and addresses legitimate questions. But the state should not hobble itself by ruling out valuable financing methods – and roads properly supported by user fees – when no viable options exist.
Mr. Carona says it's time to explore more options and find the political will to take on the daunting, unpopular challenge of expense. We agree. One value of the senator's package is to force debate on the state's overall transportation approach.
But we doubt that the challenge can be met by using anything less than every means available – and that means transit, tollways and taxes together.
(Excerpt) Read more at dallasnews.com ...
Meeting set on Trans-Texas Corridor (Azle News)
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Parker County residents will be able get the latest on plans for Fort Worth’s “outer loop” as well as the proposed Trans-Texas Corridor during a meeting set for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7 at Springtown High School, located on Highway 199 just west of Springtown.
The meeting will include a discussion of a new regional loop that could be part of the proposed Trans-Texas Corridor-35. Some plans show the western portion of the loop coming through eastern Parker County. All those interested are encouraged to attend and share their opinions and concerns. Meetings are also set for Monday, Feb. 5 in the Aledo High School auditorium, 1000 Bailey Ranch Road and Thursday, Feb. 8 at the Weatherford City Hall, 303 Palo Pinto Street.
Trans-Texas Corridor PING!
BTTT
bump.
I belive there were about 130,000 TexTags sold statewide. You right! That's not going to pay much of the bill. Selling it's soul to foriegn interests does not set well with the majority of Texans.
Free enterprise is always a winner over big gov't. LAW of suplly and demand!
That should be TxTags and foreign.....and You're right! Sorry , it's early.
I hope to turn my driveway into a toll lane. So when the TXU meter reader comes on my property I can finance future utility bills.
Bump
Pmub.
The same legislooters who are screaming about not having enough money to finance road construction have been stealing money from the TxDOT for years.
Thanks for the ping!
I hope they go broke!
Doesn't surprise me. My impression is that raiding the transportation trust funds is a national pastime.
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