Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce
Talking Points for Gene Conti
Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce
Aug. 22, 2001
- The findings of this study are not surprising.
- The Triangle region has grown at such a tremendous pace that transportation improvements have not been able to keep up.
- At DOT, we have outlined an agenda that addresses transportation challenges of all areas of the state -- both urban and rural.
- Urban areas such as the Triangle region, are experiencing congestion -- and the solution is simple: we must reduce the number of cars on our roads.
- Traffic congestion is frustrating for everyone-it is unproductive, it raises our stress level and it creates unsafe conditions along our highways.
- We will push for an expansion of rail and public transportation across our state.
- A mass transit system will not only improve congestion, it will also help us better plan for the future by offering citizens an alternative to the car.
- Unfortunately, mass transit is still years away and in the meantime we must look for other means -- such as increased bus service, car pooling, alternative work schedules and highway improvements.
- In June, we announced measures to improve traffic flow along I-40 in the Triangle.
- Although, we determined that HOV lanes would not work for I-40 at this time; we are taking other steps including the construction of a temporary connector road from I-540 to Slater Road to provide relief until I-540 is extended to N.C. 55.
- Also widening I-40 from four to six lanes from the Orange County line to the Durham Freeway, and from six to eight lanes from the Durham Freeway to I-540.
- Other projects such as the extension of I-540 and widening N.C. 55 and N.C. 54 also will help relieve congestion.
- As we continue to build highways, we must also focus on maintaining them.
- During the last 50 years, this department invested great effort in road building, earning the name of "THE GOOD ROADS STATE."
- This investment certainly paid off because our roads have played a vital role in our progress.
- Now we are faced with the challenge of maintaining them.
- I'm sure all of you are aware of our state's budget shortfall, which makes meeting our maintenance needs particularly challenging.
- Looking at internal efficiencies -- and I'm pleased to say that already we have made much progress.
- From streamlining the construction process to reducing administrative costs, we have strengthened our operations as well as improved our efficiency.
- We've also been working with the General Assembly on our maintenance backlog.
- They share our concern and there is legislation in the works that will result in at least $150 million for pavement preservation each year for the next three years.
- The greatest challenge we face is funding -- for maintenance and for the transportation improvements needed across the state.
- In addition to these commitments, the General Assembly has authorized the department to license one private toll facility.
- The General Assembly also authorized the department to conduct a public toll feasibility study, which we completed in February.
- The results of this study were very positive for the state.
- It was determined that toll funding is a highly feasible alternative to traditional funding and that this process can help us meet critical transportation needs much more quickly.
- The Toll Authority bill is moving through the process in the House.
- Another funding option pointed out in the study is more private sector contributions - or cost partnerships.
- We have already seen this with the partnerships for Davis Drive widening.
- Also, some companies have reserved right of ways for future highway improvements.
- Certainly have many challenges ahead of us.
- We all have a common interest -- a transportation system that supports our economy.
- Vital that we all work together as partners to find solutions.
- Goals and Commitments
- Eliminate highway maintenance backlog;
- Protect and improve the state's natural resources;
- Reduce congestion to enhance continued growth in urban areas;
- Provide transportation infrastructure to boost rural economic development;
- Improve operating efficiency by maximizing existing resources and by seeking new ways to perform traditional tasks;
- Plan and expand mass transit;
- Improve rail, aviation, bicycle, ferries and other alternative means of transportation;
- Ensure that all citizens have a voice in transportation decisions which affect them;
- Make sure employees have a safe workplace as they build and maintain our transportation systems.
Back to Index