State Transportation Ballot Initiatives Show that States are “Not Waiting for the Federal Government to Act”

Tuesday, November 4, 2014 - 10:00 PM ET
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IBTTA STATEMENT ON 2014 ELECTIONS

WASHINGTON, DC – Below is a statement from Patrick D. Jones, Executive Director and CEO of the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), the worldwide association of toll facility owners and operators and the business that serve them, in reaction to tonight’s election results:

“The transportation ballot initiatives in Maryland, Massachusetts, Texas and Wisconsin are strong evidence that states are not waiting for the federal government to act. 

Reflecting ongoing concerns over the future of the federal surface transportation reauthorization, state and local governments are embracing homegrown ways to tackle their infrastructure funding challenges.

As we move into 2015, we need to make sure that states and localities have maximum flexibility to use the funding and financing tools that are most appropriate for them to build and maintain their vital surface transportation infrastructure.

Whatever the final outcome of today’s Congressional elections, we are hopeful that the next Congress can, at the very least, enable the states to consider all transportation funding alternatives available. Tolling, fuel taxes, road usage charges and infrastructure banks are all valuable tools to be considered and used appropriately.

There are no free roads. It’s time to make tough choices to ensure that drivers are safe, our infrastructure is well maintained and our economy is moving.”

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About IBTTA
The International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) is the worldwide association for the owners and operators of toll facilities and the businesses that serve them. Founded in 1932, IBTTA has members in more than 20 countries and on six continents. Through advocacy, thought leadership and education, members are implementing state-of-the-art, innovative user-based transportation financing solutions to address the critical infrastructure challenges of the 21st century. For more information, visit www.ibtta.org or join us on Twitter @IBTTA or #TollRoads.