Mike
Well-Known Member
Citing public opinion, Gov. Mitch Daniels told legislative leaders in Indiana to withdraw proposed legislation to clear the way for two privately run toll roads in the state.
“It is clear to me that we are far from the degree of consensus that is necessary before embarking on major public works projects of high local impact,” Daniels said in letters to leaders of the House and Senate transportation committees.
Daniels’ announcement, made during the weekend, signaled the Republican governor was conceding defeat on his tolling plans in the face of swelling opposition from the public. Allowing private groups to build or run roadways in the state has been met with angst from many in the state since Daniels decided to pursue and eventually signed over controlling authority for the Indiana Toll Road nearly a year ago.
The public was at odds with this new proposal to allow a private group to build and operate a toll route through five counties neighboring Indianapolis. The proposed 75-mile Indiana Commerce Connector sought to link Interstate 69 northeast of the city with Interstate 70 to the southwest.
The Senate voted along party lines in February to advance the Republican-led bill – SB1 – that called for using money from the deal to help build the planned extension of I-69 through southern Indiana. The bill had been awaiting consideration in the House where Democrats – who generally oppose the effort – control the chamber by a razor-thin 51-49 margin.
Sponsored by Sen. Thomas Wyss, R-Fort Wayne, the bill was touted as a way to remove the state’s authority to collect tolls along a portion of I-69.
more...
“It is clear to me that we are far from the degree of consensus that is necessary before embarking on major public works projects of high local impact,” Daniels said in letters to leaders of the House and Senate transportation committees.
Daniels’ announcement, made during the weekend, signaled the Republican governor was conceding defeat on his tolling plans in the face of swelling opposition from the public. Allowing private groups to build or run roadways in the state has been met with angst from many in the state since Daniels decided to pursue and eventually signed over controlling authority for the Indiana Toll Road nearly a year ago.
The public was at odds with this new proposal to allow a private group to build and operate a toll route through five counties neighboring Indianapolis. The proposed 75-mile Indiana Commerce Connector sought to link Interstate 69 northeast of the city with Interstate 70 to the southwest.
The Senate voted along party lines in February to advance the Republican-led bill – SB1 – that called for using money from the deal to help build the planned extension of I-69 through southern Indiana. The bill had been awaiting consideration in the House where Democrats – who generally oppose the effort – control the chamber by a razor-thin 51-49 margin.
Sponsored by Sen. Thomas Wyss, R-Fort Wayne, the bill was touted as a way to remove the state’s authority to collect tolls along a portion of I-69.
more...
