The Minnesota Legislature made significant strides on transportation during the 2008 session. This is critical following nearly two decades of failing to adequately fund transportation.
While a recent report laid considerable blame on the Minnesota Department of Transportation, considerable fault lies with the Legislative and various administrations. For nearly two decades, there was no political will to increase transportation funding due to the fear of raising the gas tax.
The highlight this year includes a significant boost in transportation funding for state and local roads and bridges. This will total $6.6 billion over the next decade.
MnDOT's transportation schedule for 2009 and 2010 will feature significantly more construction funding -- spending 25 percent more and 88 percent more respectively than previously planned.
Sen. Joe Gimse, R-Willmar, said he is disappointed in the transportation bill due to the 8.5-cent gas tax increase over the life of the bill. The senator's continued criticism is short-sighted, especially considering he campaigned on the importance of transportation to west central Minnesota.
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Gimse's position is even more disappointing considering he is a businessman. The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce supported the transportation bill and the override of Gov. Tim Pawlenty's veto due to a critical need for transportation funding in this state.
It is time politicians quit playing politics with the gas tax increase and recognize the value of investing in Minnesota's crumbling infrastructure. How many more bridges must fail or be closed before they understand?
