Transportation 2035 - State of Rhode Island: Division of Planning

December 2012• Dedicate transportation-related fees to the Transportation Trust Fund in accordance with the stated priorities. The Commission recognizes that thiscreates a funding gap in the General Fund.• Consider tolls on the I-95 corridor, or other locations, after appropriate impact study.• Consider commercial enterprise at highway rest stops in Rhode Island.• Advocate for increased funding in the upcoming federal transportation authorization.• Consider seeking public/private partnerships where feasible.• Continue to examine new methods of funding transportation projects.• Consider conducting an in-depth and comprehensive Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) fee study, including economic, privacy, and environmental factors.There is a clear understanding that the funding provided through both existing State and Federal sources is insufficient to meet our transportationinfrastructure needs. Furthermore, Rhode Island is not alone: every state is facing an uncertain future for Federal transportation funding, and every state hasunmet transportation infrastructure needs. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) has estimated an annual fundinggap of $135 billion at the national level.Rhode Island has taken the first, formative steps to resolve the funding gap by passage of a measure to eliminate future bond borrowing and replace the Statematch with revenue from more sustainable sources. Further change is needed, a fact recognized by both the Executive and Legislative branches ofgovernment in Rhode Island. Several proposals have been made to increase and diversify revenue streams: these proposals are being analyzed in an effort tofind the most equitable and sustainable sources of funding for future transportation infrastructure needs.FISCAL CONSTRAINT ANALYSISThe table below shows Rhode Island’s historic and projected Highway and Transit Program funding allocations from 2009 – 2035. For 2013 and beyond, thetable is based on anticipated FHWA, FTA, and State funding. The funding allocation is displayed by major TIP program and project.Transportation 2035 (2012 Update)State Guide Plan Element 611Rhode Island Statewide Planning ProgramPage 3-14