By Sean Holstege | The Arizona Republic
Arizona transportation officials told the State Transportation Board last week that, faced with declining revenue, it can no longer afford new freeway construction and upkeep at current levels.
“We have a daunting task in front of us,” said Victor Flores, the chairman of the board, after learning the Arizona Department of Transportation will lose $350million in highway revenue over the next five years.
Beyond Friday’s Transportation Board hearing, momentum has been growing to raise more cash for highways, trains and buses. In recent weeks, there has been a series of public pronouncements about advancing new or renewed ballot measures. Today, the Arizona chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America is convening a private meeting in Phoenix to discuss transportation funding.
Last on the agenda: “Brainstorm and Develop a Transportation Stakeholder Action Plan,” which could mean discussion about a bond measure.
