Legislative Agenda 2013-14: Transportation & Infrastructure

Wisconsin’s transportation infrastructure is challenged by growing demands for use of the system, inadequate federal funding, and state funding having been siphoned away in the past to support other government spending. Wisconsin businesses rely on transportation infrastructure to move goods either to points of production or to market. The ability of Wisconsin businesses to compete depends on having a reliable and modern transportation network. 
•           Fund necessary road improvement projects. Keep the Zoo Interchange, I-39/90 from Madison to the state line, I-94 from Milwaukee to the state line, US 41 from Appleton to Green Bay, and six other major projects on-time.  
•           Maintain adequate port facilities. Provide appropriate state and federal funding to keep our airports and ports on the Great Lakes and Mississippi open to commercial activity. 
•           Enhance Wisconsin’s rail network. Support the re-establishment of a Milwaukee-area intermodal container facility, as well as developing such facilities in other parts of the state beyond the current Chippewa Falls location. Also, support state acquisition of the rail line into Sauk County so needed repairs can be made and freight rail service preserved for years to come.  
•           Identify sustainable transportation revenue streams. Support efforts to find additional sources of revenue to finance state transportation needs. 
•           Ensure efficient use of available transportation resources. Identify areas where costs can be reduced in the construction or maintenance of state transportation facilities without compromising the safety of the traveling public. 
•           Expand broadband access. To foster economic development and e-commerce, as well as expand educational opportunities, Wisconsin should encourage the deployment of broadband services in underserved areas without providing taxpayer subsidized competition against the private sector.