Make Interstate 95 in Rhode Island a Toll Road (Providence, Pawtucket: transporting, tax)
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CT abolished its tolls years ago realizing the unneeded congestion they caused.
Improving 146 is I'm sure not a priority to the state for many reasons.
I got a radical idea for the roads, how about using the gas tax entirely for its intended purpose?
we agree on your last thought. Many states use these funds solely for that purpose. We have an "all revenue goes into the general fund" mentality.
As for Ct. They abolished their tolls after two accidents within two months when toll collectors were killed by out of control vehicles running over toll booths. They have missed the revenue brought in by those tolls. They are reconsidering tolls on 95 and other roads, both interstate and state roads. There will be no toll collectors. As you stated employees and administration costs are high, but many states are already using "Sakonnet Bridge Technology. Massachusetts is soon to move in this direction ridding itself of toll booths on the Mass Pike.
Many reasons not to improve 146? How about safety, as it is one of the most dangerous divided roadways in the state. The Mansfield Road traffic light backs up traffic to 295. It would give the area better access to central Mass and the Mass Pike. Route 146 was improved to Route 123, but other improvements have been put on hold for lack of funding.
Many reasons not to improve 146? How about safety, as it is one of the most dangerous divided roadways in the state. The Mansfield Road traffic light backs up traffic to 295. It would give the area better access to central Mass and the Mass Pike. Route 146 was improved to Route 123, but other improvements have been put on hold for lack of funding.
Quote:
Originally Posted by AP
Portions of the interstate highway system are more than 50 years old. The largest public works project in the world and the economic lifeline to every community in America, the interstate highways are crumbling due to neglect, lack of maintenance, and inadequate funding. From an initial investment of $129 billion – the actual cost to first build the interstate highway system – it will now cost America between $1.3 trillion and $2.5 trillion to rebuild the interstate highways over the next 50 years.
Everyone wants fine, smooth ribbons of highway; problem is, no one wants to pay for it. It costs what it costs to maintain roads and bridges. Are tolls the answer to Rhode Island's deficient highways and byways? I don't know. But I do know it will cost more money than is currently allocated, and that money has to come from somewhere. Anyone have a better idea?
(I don't own or need a car --- I walk most everywhere, and my solution to coping with the yawning potholes on Providence streets and sidewalks has been to wear hiking books -- I gave up riding my bike within months of moving here because I blew out two tires from potholes in short order.)
Many reasons not to improve 146? How about safety, as it is one of the most dangerous divided roadways in the state. The Mansfield Road traffic light backs up traffic to 295. It would give the area better access to central Mass and the Mass Pike. Route 146 was improved to Route 123, but other improvements have been put on hold for lack of funding.
Sure a few of the exits/intersections could use some improvements. The road overall (especially north of 295) just doesn't have the traffic volume to justify spending money on major expansion. There are much greater needs elsewhere in the state. And face it, that part of RI doesn't have the same political pull as some other areas. It is at the back of the line.
Yeah, already did that. We also have one of the smallest government work forces in the country. Get on the ole' goog.
Please re-read my post and notice how I said "cut it again" after it has been cut. Smallest government workforces? RI is also a small state. Local governments are bloated beyond belief. If the government is so lean and entitlements are bare bones, then RI must have lower than average taxes right?
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