I believe that we must work to create efficient ways to get people where they want to go. That includes encouraging the use of public transportation, expanding the state van pooling system, and building and maintaining good bike trails. Given the escalating price of fuel and diminishing state transportation funds, we need to plan for the future by exploring the feasibility of expanded bus service and transportation options between communities and regions of our state.
Walking the neighborhoods of our district has impressed upon me the importance of pedestrian safety and accessibility. Well-maintained and effectively constructed crosswalks, lighting, traffic signaling and intersections are all important parts of transportation planning and neighborhood safety.
Recent flooding has certainly shown us the value of good roads and strong infrastructure such as bridges and dams. We need to repair the damage done while creating a system that ensures regular inspection and preventive maintenance of bridges and dams.
Transportation and infrastructure are areas where federal money is often available. I believe strong political advocacy can increase the amount of federal money returned to Wisconsin to provide for infrastructure and transportation projects in our communities. I am also a strong proponent of protecting segregated funds for their intended purpose. Segregated fees are often user fees that are collected with the understanding that those fees will be used for related purposes, Wisconsin needs to return to the practice of safeguarding these funds.
Working for Senator Robson, I was often an advocate for communities, farmers, and small businesses that had difficulties with transportation projects. Given that advocacy experience, I believe that as we develop and reinvest in our infrastructure, it is vital that we appreciate the value of our environment, agricultural land and the economic impact to our small businesses.
