MTAC testifies before Transportation Committee

On Wednesday, February 15, MTAC President Joe Sculley testified before the legislature’s joint Transportation Committee on several bills. They included a bill regarding recommendations by the DOT, a proposal to create a task force to study alternative funding sources for rest areas on state highways, a proposal regarding the construction of tunnels for Interstates 84…

Connecticut Capital

On Wednesday, February 15, MTAC President Joe Sculley testified before the legislature’s joint Transportation Committee on several bills. They included a bill regarding recommendations by the DOT, a proposal to create a task force to study alternative funding sources for rest areas on state highways, a proposal regarding the construction of tunnels for Interstates 84 and 91 in Hartford, and a bill that would treat the transportation of modular homes the same as any other over-dimensioned load.

Joe Sculley stated that MTAC has been working with Conn DOT to make positive changes to the permitting and transportation of oversize and overweight loads in Connecticut, and that the bill “will ultimately result in benefits to the construction contractors and subcontractors who use the permits, as well as customers who benefit from their work, in both the public sector and private sector.”

On a related note, Sculley questioned how the bill regarding the transportation of modular homes would benefit CT’s economy, and urged that CT-based businesses transporting over-dimensioned loads should see their service improved before changes regarding modular homes are made.

Sculley also praised the bill which would study alternative funding for rest areas on state highways. He then stated that Congressman John Larson had put forth a thoughtful plan regarding highways in the Hartford region. “MTAC does not believe that the current replacement plan for the I-84 Hartford Viaduct would do much, if anything, to relieve congestion at the current I-84/91 interchange. It is very possible that Congressman Larson’s proposal could result in congestion relief,” Sculley stated. He also cautioned that transportation of hazardous materials must not be disadvantaged by any highway construction plans.

To see a copy of Joe Sculley’s testimony, click here.

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