AOI Member’s Concerns Sought by Committee

On Wednesday, March 4, the House Committee on Transportation heard about AOI members' increasing difficulty in moving freight and accessing rail.  The appearance by AOI was requested from Committee Chair, Representative Terry Beyer (D-Springfield).

The hearing, ostensibly about HB 2120, the Governor’s Jobs and Transportation Act of 2009, turned into a broad ranging discussion of transportation issues of all types.  AOI noted to the committee that our members have historically supported major transportation initiatives and are very interested in reducing congestion, expanding the I-5 Bridge, and improving rail access.

The hearing was the first in what is expected to be a long and difficult series of hearings and negotiations.  AOI, representing the greater businesses community has been in close discussion with key legislators and other stakeholder groups exploring various options for a major package.  Although there is strong support for such a measure, there are two major impediments in the road: first, many legislators are reluctant to vote to raise taxes or fees of any type; second, there is a deep split over how much money should go towards concrete vs. bike paths, public transportation and “green projects.”

The discussions are expected to go on for several weeks, at least, before a new bill emerges.