(Press Release) A new broad-based, statewide transportation coalition has been formed to advocate for a strategic new approach to improving transportation in Ohio, including new and increased funding for all modes of travel, it was announced on Tuesday.
Recognizing that a well-funded, interconnected transportation system is the backbone of a strong economy in Ohio – in moving goods, people and services to where they need to go – and alarmed by the shortfalls in transportation funding which will mean more job losses in the state, Transportation MATTERS was formed. Its first official act was to endorse the 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force recommendations, also released on Tuesday.
Its founders include 26 organizations, including transit agencies, metropolitan planning organizations, highway contractors and transportation industry professionals and associations. The coalition will bring together multiple interests to educate the public and policy-makers on how strategic transportation investments are critical to Ohio’s economic prosperity.
The coalition has been monitoring the discussions and recommendations emerging from Ohio’s 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force, chaired by Ty Marsh, president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. At their first meeting in May, Governor Ted Strickland challenged Task Force members to “envision and champion the optimum transportation system for Ohio’s future and recommend the resources and financial tools needed to build and sustain it.” Governor Strickland urged the Task Force to think big and to recommend bold action, which is reflected in the report released today and supported by Transportation MATTERS.
“Ohio is the crossroads of this country, and a well-planned, well-funded transportation network of highways, maritime, rail, transit, sidewalks and bikeway investments will mean the difference between economic prosperity and economic meltdown in this state,” said Bill Habig, president of the Transportation MATTERS Board of Directors and a member of the Task Force.
“Investment in infrastructure pays immediate and long-term dividends by employing thousands of Ohioans in these tough economic times, and by shaping the communities we will want to live in for decades to come. Our coalition embraces the Task Force’s bold vision to improve and integrate all of these modes of travel, and stands ready to educate Ohioans on the urgent need for more funding in these areas.”
The coalition will join Task Force members in meetings throughout the state to help educate Ohioans on the need for improved transportation and to seek their support for increased funding.