With Tyler Kane, Transportation Investment Advocacy Center
As the impasse continues over increasing transportation funding, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) issued an executive order on Aug. 17 to utilize state General Fund revenue to pay for “absolutely essential” transportation projects. The projects, which will be chosen by the Director of the Division of Budget and Accounting in consultation with the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation and Executive Director of the New Jersey Transit Corporation, will be selected on their necessity for the “health, safety, and welfare” of New Jersey residents, as well as what is required to “ensure the receipt of federal funding”. Read More>>
Earlier this week, New Jersey road workers protested in front of various State Senate offices, opposing the state’s shutdown of their road projects. Gov. Christie ordered a shutdown of most publically funded transportation projects in the beginning of July, and continued disagreement over the gas tax increase has cost workers both their wages and their ability to meet minimum requirements to qualify for health insurance. Read More>>