For the first time, Rhode Island voters will be tested on their support for public transit by whether they approve authorizing $35 million for Mass Transit Hub Infrastructure Bonds on Nov. 4. In addition to hubs, statewide bus service is targeted.
Previously, voters supported transportation measures that included funds for commuter rail and buses, but Question 6 in November is exclusively for public transit.
"The money would largely be invested in building and modernizing existing and new transit hubs — with a primary focus on building a statewide multi-modal transportation center adjacent to Providence Amtrak Station," writes of Transportation for America.
The intended purpose of the funds would be to improve access to multiple intermodal sites, key transportation, healthcare, and other locations. The funds would be provided to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation. [Ballotpedia]
According to Gov. Lincoln Chaffee, bond funds "would also be used to pursue plans for two other downtown transportation hubs, one at Kennedy Plaza and another at the Garrahy Judicial Complex, as well as to upgrade RIPTA’s bus system across the state," writes Richard Salit of the Providence Journal.
Opposing the measure is the R.I. Center for Freedom and Prosperity. Mike Stenhouse of the group told WPRI that "the state cannot take on any more debt, saying if the state does, it should only be to rebuild roads and bridges, not mass transit."
The "Yes on 6" campaign is backed by a broad coalition of groups (listed on their homepage) and is organized by Grow Smart Rhode Island.
Other bond measures on the ballot include $125 million to construct a new College of Engineering building, $53 million for environmental and recreational purposes, and $35 million to fund artistic, historic and cultural centers.
T4America Blog is covering many state transportation ballot measures to be decided Nov. 4. For more information, be sure to check out their Transportation Vote 2014 page.
FULL STORY: Rhode Island’s first statewide ballot measure to support transit
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