Statewide Improvement and Funding Act to meet Georgia’s Transportation Needs
ATLANTA- Today House Transportation Committee Chairman Vance Smith, Jr. (R-Pine Mountain) introduced the Georgia 20/20 Statewide Transportation Act. The 20/20 Act offers a clear vision for the state’s transportation needs. It also puts accountability and transparency measures in place to ensure the revenues are dedicated to an approved transportation project list. If passed by the General Assembly, Georgians will vote in November 2010 to approve a ten year one percent statewide transportation sales tax that will expire at the end of year 2020.
“The 20/20 Act offers a well-defined plan to improve Georgia’s transportation needs throughout the state,” said Rep. Vance Smith. “From every corner of Georgia and to every city and county in between, this transportation proposal will provide real solutions.”
Under this legislation, funds would be made available to support infrastructure enhancements like interchange improvements, major arterials, a multi-modal station, pedestrian facilities, bridge rehabilitation, expanding lane capacity and further developing existing corridors for freight and economic development purposes. It would also include funds for all modes of transportation like commuter rail, and light rail as well as funds for general aviation improvements.
“Chairman Smith’s proposal not only meets Georgia’s statewide transportation needs, but will help the state continue its growth and prosperity,” said Speaker Glenn Richardson (R-Hiram). “The 20/20 Act is the type of bold, forward-thinking this state requires to solve our transportation problems, provide congestion relief, spur economic development and improve quality of life for all Georgians.”
In addition to the identified projects in the 20/20 Act, counties and cities will receive direct grants or Local Transportation Flexibility Funds based on a population formula to meet local transportation needs. These grants will be in addition to the State Aid, Local Assistance Road Program (LARP), Bridge Rehabilitation program and Dirt Road Program funds currently provided by the Department of Transportation.
“This proposal is similar to a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), except Georgians will be asked to approve a statewide list of transportation projects detailed in accompanying legislation,” said Rep. Donna Sheldon (R-Dacula). “This type of transparency and accountability is a key part of the 20/20 Act.”
The revenues raised by the 20/20 Act will be banked in a transportation trust fund administered by the State Road and Tollway Authority. A legislative oversight committee will ensure the funds are disbursed as approved by Georgia voters.
“This proposal addresses the transportation needs of all Georgia,” said Rep. Jay Shaw (D-Lakeland). “It provides congestion relief in metro areas and funds projects in rural Georgia that have deserved more attention.”
Upon approval by the General Assembly, the 20/20 Act is projected to raise $25-29 billion. All current sales tax exemptions will apply to the 20/20 Act.
Sponsors of the 20/20 Act also include Speaker Pro Tempore Mark Burkhalter (R-Alpharetta), House Majority Leader Jerry Keen (R-St. Simons), Rep. Donna Sheldon, and Rep. Jay Shaw.
A list of the proposed 20/20 Act projects and corresponding maps can be found at the following links: http://www.legis.ga.gov/legis/2009_10/house/newsroom2.html
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