Malloy worries lawmakers won’t follow through on transportation plan

Excerpt from Record Journal:

Both the Motor Transport Association of Connecticut and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association have embraced Malloy’s plan, saying infrastructure improvements are needed to support the state’s economy.

“Congestion on the highway hinders commerce,” said Joe Scully, president of the transport association, which represents the state’s hauling industry.

CBIA recently identified transportation as one of five things Connecticut can do to spur its economy. CBIA President Joe Brennan said businesses around the state, even in less congested areas, have realized the need for improvements statewide.

While he agrees with Republicans that Connecticut needs to focus on its needs and live within its financial resources, he also said he appreciates Malloy’s grand vision.

“I thought it was good to have it out there and have a bold plan,” he said. Funding remains a sticking point for business owners, though.

Scully said haulers already pay higher taxes for diesel and registration fees in Connecticut, and he disagrees with the notion that tolls are needed to ensure truckers pay their share for road maintenance.

Fees are also dispersed to and from each state based on miles traveled, so Connecticut receives funding for out-of-state truckers who pass through.

See the full Record Journal article online.