TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE

The state should significantly invest in its transportation infrastructure, including ports and waterways, enhance public safety, relieve congestion in major urban areas and support commerce and economic development.

The state has a maintenance backlog on existing highways and bridges totaling more than $14 billion and a list of priority mega-projects with a price tag approaching $15 billion. Research tells us that Louisiana’s infrastructure is poorly maintained, inadequately funded, and not designed to meet tomorrow’s demands, placing the state at an economic competitiveness disadvantage. 

To address our infrastructure and transportation issues, we should:

• Developing a funding proposal for infrastructure which might include: adjusting the gas tax; assessing appropriate fees on vehicles using alternative fuels to ensure that all motorists who use state highways and other infrastructure contribute to their maintenance, safety and expansion; and utilizing alternative and innovative delivery methods, including private/public partnerships and tolling;

• Continuing to prioritize investment in rail to diversify transportation options and encourage economic development;

• Targeting specific projects for funds collected, ensuring accountability and transparency in spending.