BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN PROJECTS RECEIVE SUPPORT AT PUBLIC HEARING

AUGUSTA- A measure that would fund 39 bike and pedestrian projects throughout the state received support at a public hearing earlier today.

Senator Cathy Breen of Falmouth

“These projects will leverage locally-raised funds to create construction jobs and increase safety for pedestrians, bikers, and drivers alike,” said Democratic Senator Cathy Breen of Falmouth, the sponsor of the bond proposal. “Investing in multi-use transportation infrastructure is a smart use of funds.”

Maine needs $10.7 million to pay for and complete 39 bicycle and pedestrian projects including sidewalks, bike paths and multi-use trails.  All 39 communities that have proposed these projects have already committed local dollars to supplement state dollars.  State funds dedicated to these projects will leverage additional dollars from local taxpayers. Additionally, each of these projects has already been reviewed and approved by the Maine Department of Transportation.

The Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee will vote on the bond proposal, LD 193 in the coming days.