Federal transportation funding increased; now MO transportation funding solution needed as well, says The Missourian

Headlines are quick hits from media outlets from Missouri and around the world. Follow the headline link for the full story. The source of this headline says:

Stephen R. Miller, Kansas City, who is chairman of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, said, in addition to the federal funds, Missouri needs $160 million annually in new state revenues if it wants to adequately maintain and improve the existing highway system, make safety improvements and make a start in addressing the backlog of 641 critical-condition bridges that need to be rebuilt or replaced. Miller emphasized that the federal funds do not change the need for $160 million in new state revenues.

Miller pointed out that the state can’t rely on the federal government to address the most pressing needs. He said legislation has been prefiled to raise the state’s 17-cent-per-gallon fuel tax. That tax hasn’t changed since 1996! That legislation would produce about $80 million a year in new revenue. And, 30 percent would go to cities and counties for road and bridge needs. Since those funds are dedicated for roads and bridges, nothing is provided for other modes of transportation. After the cities’ and counties’ share, that would leave $56 million for the state.

Link: 

Federal transportation funding increased; now MO transportation funding solution needed as well, says The Missourian