All of the public meetings were well attended with a broad spectrum of the
public represented. In general attendees favored significant improvements.
Numerous suggestions for funding such improvements were entertained. The
most common suggestions were modest registration increases, and either no
fuel tax
or a very small fuel tax increase of two cents of less.
In general to support of highway improvements, other clear messages from the
public were that any proposal should include: 1) a statewide approach, 2)
specific projects, 3) restricted funds, 4) a sunset, and 5) avoidance of
bonding if possible.
Based upon this public input, Sen. Riggs is developing a legislative concept
which would include projects on Highways 95, 55, 93, 30, and 20. (the package
will benefit some high priority project throughout the state and thus
/hopefully give more statewide support for the measure). The package would
be project specific a an eight year contstruction schedule. All funds
generated would be restricted to these projects. If existing ITD
construction funds
are kept in place (over $34 million per year), the creation of an
additional $36 million per year would allow the acceleration of numerous
projects shortening
completion from over 20 years into an eight year schedule.
An average vehicle registration increase of $36/year would create
approximately $36 million annually without any fuel tax. A one cent fuel
tax increase would create an additional $7 million per year. One approach
may be to revise and expand the current $24-$36-$48 registration system
which is based upon age of the vehicle, to include a higher bracket for new
cars and increasing the lower
bracket by only $6 -$12. Neighboring states' registration and fee systems are
much higher. Based upon a 1994 Chevy Caprice comparable annual
registrations and fees are: Washington-$491, Montana $335, Utah $376,
Nevada $347, Arizona
$517, South Dakota $773, Colorado $534, Wyoming $469, and Idaho is $41.
The HIghway 95 Bonding Bill from last session failed in the Senate
Transportation Committee. A bonding approach at the current time would cost
well
over $150 million in interest over the next 15 years. Without bonding, savings
can be realized on interest and all construction can be completed within
8 years. Highway construction takes a long period of time from concept to
engineering to land acquisition to completion. The key to success will be
the creation of consistent additional funds over the entire eight year
course of the construction period. Many legislators, chamber of commerce,
and members of
various interest groups have indicated early support for this approach.
Sen. Riggs points out that any fee increase is not a pleasant prospect, but that
thate safety, access, and economic issues associated with improving these
highways to minimum standards outweigh the adverse arguments--benefits
outweigh
the risks. Sen. Riggs asks for citizen input and support to create a
common sense constructon package which meets the needs and desires of Idaho
citizens.
I'm also including the specified highway project list that Sen. Riggs sent me.
I--Years 1-3
Riggins
Pinehurst-south
Mica-Worley (4 lane)
Desmet-Skyline Dr.
Bonners North Hill
Tamarack-Mesa
LWS-Moscow plus Alt (4 lane)
CdA-Sandpt plus Alt. (4 lane)
II--Years 3-5
Weiser-Mesa
Sandpoint-Bonners Ferry
Eastport-south
Junction-Hwy1
Mcall Alt.
Smiths Ferry
Twin Falls Bridge
Highway 30
Ashton Bridge
III--Years 5-8
Desmet-Moctolime Cr.
Moscow-Skyline Dr
Bonners Alt
CdA Alt (4 lane)
Grangeville Alt
Indian Valley Alt
Emmett-Star (4 lane)
Pancheri Drive
This is very important bill and Sen. Riggs seeks your support and ideas.
His address is 801 South 11th, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814.
Rep. Tom Trail
Dr. Tom Trail
International Trails
2039 Mt. View Rd.
Moscow, Id. 83843
Tel: (208) 882-6077
Fax: (208) 882-0896
e mail ttrail@moscow.com