We're bound to have a heated debate about whether the proposed 19-cent gas tax is an appropriate trade-off for "a NEW COMMUTER RAIL LINE, expanded transit service, and additional road and bridge work" for Western MA, as the state Secy of Transportation is proposing, but I personally hope the tremendous economic and environmental benefits of commuter rail don't get drowned out.
I'll be reminding policymakers that however it's paid for, we need the estimated $152 million in economic stimulus that the proposed commuter rail project from Springfield to New Haven will bring Western MA as well as less congested highways and a lowering of polluting and greenhouse gas producing emissions. And Secy Aloisi is talking about extending the commuter rail line to VT (yes!) -- which would go a long way toward establishing Springfield as a major transportation hub for north-south travel -- and looking forward, a bigger hub for east-west travel.
Western MA has a LOT to gain if we can lock in new commuter rail and other transit improvements. I want to make sure policymakers are considering all the short and long term benefits as they overhaul our state's transportation system.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
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2 comments:
State governments must balance their budgets and we need a 21st century transportation system. That being the case, and speaking only for myself, I support the gas tax.
State governments must balance their budgets and we need a 21st century transportation system. That being the case I support the gas tax.
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