1996 AGN JUN 18 I18 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Board Agenda Item June 5, 1996 Page 2 year's SB 160 represents a collaboration of Senator Kopp and . the Wilson Administration. Senator Kopp has given strong support to the Administration's "devolution" of many ofthe State's transportation responsibilities to the regional and local level and the Senator has also strongly supported the Administration's Privatization efforts. SB 1505 (Kopp), will be amended to deal with these subject areas. From SANBAG's perspective, the revised outline of SB 160 oft'ers substantial advantages over the version SANBAG endorsed in 1995. First, even after funds are reserved for the MRS system and economic development projects, the Regional Choice pot will increase by 9°/.. Secondly, taking the 1RRs funding "off the top" benefits those 8reas with A�Wiuoant rural state highway mileage. It also substantially eliminates the zero sum competition that exists today where an IRKS commitment counts against the statangry county mb inmm allocation. The proposed MRS funding category is not subject to county minimums. The third potential benefit to SANBAG is the allowance for the California Transportation Commission to reserve up to 10% ofa County Regional Choice allocation. The existence of this option would provide a disincentive to a county choosing to avoid funding a missing link in our highway system. While the proposal has caused concerns amongst some regional agencies, it does address a real problem. Furthermorc, the authors of SB 160 seen committed to this approach. Finally, while several regional agencies oppose the proposed economic proiect funding, the Inland Empire stands in an excellent competitive Position to seek this funding e.g., Southern California International Airport, San Bernardino International Airport, interchange and road improvements tied to increased rail and truck freight, etc. There are a number of outstanding issues including the roles of regional planning s agentaeand the outcome ofthe Administration's "devolution" initiatives. It is likely that SB 160 will be substantially amended at least once more and most likely receive two hearings in the Assembly Transportation Committee. This level of scrutiny is appropriate given the importance of this legislation; easily the most sweeping transportation legislation of the 1990's. I . Financiallnwact Probable increases in available state funding with additional funding fnr rural highways. ReWerred Ey: 9an%a ZM rN 96Sv 196 JUN -05-1996 16:02 ®�