Baldacci’s Bonding Priorities Differ from Republican Legislators, Citizens of Maine
Infrastructure Investment Not Sufficiently Addressed in Governor’s $397 Million Bond Proposal
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 19, 2007
AUGUSTA – Today, in a crowded cabinet room filled with special interests and billboards of Maine images, the Governor announced details of his $397 million bond proposal. Referring to his bond proposal as the foundation for a transforming Maine economy, his plan would roll out his bonding amount over a period of three years.
In stark contrast to the Republican proposal for a separate $200 million infrastructure investment package, that would invest $180 million into Maine’s roads and bridges and $20 million for sewer systems and water quality, the Governor has proposed $100 million for roads and bridges. The Department of Transportation, which falls under the Executive Department of Maine government (of which the Governor oversees), has previously stated that at least $150 million would be required to begin improving Maine’s deteriorating roads and bridges.
Other aspects of the Governor’s bond proposal includes $97 million for “quality places” such as historic sites,” $17 million for passenger and freight rails and $131 million for Maine’s innovation economy.
The Governor’s proposal will be considered by the Legislature which will ultimately decide the bond package that Maine voters will consider in future ballots. In addition to his suggested $397 million proposal, the Governor has called for the Legislature to negotiate a comprehensive bond package, which would leave Maine’s unsafe infrastructure vulnerable to deal making and politicking.
Senate Republican Leader Carol Weston, of Montville, was surprised by the low placement of Maine’s deteriorating infrastructure on the Governor’s list of priorities, considering the outcry from Mainers and the evaluations of his own Department of Transportation. Stating her party’s commitment to fight for the safety needs of Maine’s citizens, she said, “Republicans have heard the demands of our citizens. We will continue fighting for ample investments in our roads, bridges, sewer systems and water quality to make the changes we so desperately need. Infrastructure investment is our priority because infrastructure investment is the peoples’ priority.”
CONTACT:
William Thompson 287-1505 (o)
Communications Director, Senate Republican Office