A report on the fall quarterly Business Leaders for Transportation member meetings.
The fall quarterly meeting of
Business Leaders for Transportation featured an intimate conversation with Ill.
Sens. Frank Watson (R-Greenville) and Christine Radogno (R-Lemont) about the need for a new
state capital program. After listening to informative presentations by Darcy
Davidsmeyer of the STAR Line Alliance, Regional Transportation Authority
Chairman Jim Reilly, and Rick Harnish of the Midwest High Speed Rail Association
detailing the extent of the need for investments in regional transit, the
senators discussed the obstacles and opportunities for passing an effective
capital bill.
One of the key
themes of the discussion was the Senate Republican Caucus’ lack of trust around
the governor’s capital project selection process. Though both Minority Leader Watson
and Sen. Radogno, who is running for state treasurer, both agreed the state needs
a new and large capital plan, they were not convinced the General Assembly
would be able to pass a plan unless the project selection process became more
transparent and delivered true transportation solutions for the state. The
senators also emphasized the need for transit advocates, including Business
Leaders for Transportation, to do more to excite public support in suburban
areas for significant investments in our trains and buses.
Thanks to all the presenters for
their compelling presentations on the local, regional and state transit
opportunities. Business Leaders for Transportation will continue to work with
these groups as we collectively progress towards passing a transparent and
criteria-driven capital bill in 2007.
Save the Date! Next Business Leaders for
Transportation
member meeting: Friday, December 1, 2006, 8:00 – 9:30
a.m.
Click
here to become a Partner
for Transit and support critical investments in our region’s transit system.
Click here to read more about the
STAR Line Alliance.
Click here to read more about the
Midwest High Speed Rail Association.
Click here to become a member of
Business Leaders for Transportation.