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Director Ness to discuss transportation policies, funding

ITD Director Brian Ness will describe how transportation decisions are made and implemented as part of “A Road Map to Transportation Policy,” organized by the Idaho Business Review. The two-hour discussion, part of a quarterly leadership series, is scheduled June 4, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., at the Concordia University School of Law in Boise.

The session will look at transportation planning and funding and their role in ensuring a robust, growing state economy.

“Policymakers have the difficult task of setting priorities for Idaho’s scarce transportation dollars to meet present and future demands," according to forum organizers.

“As southwestern Idaho’s urban centers grow, local leaders will have to find consensus on how to increase transportation infrastructure. They will have to decide whether or not to invest more money in public transportation – and if they do, when and how.

“Meanwhile, they have to decide how to repair the state’s existing roadways and bridges.“

After extensive testimony, a governor’s task force on transportation funding determined that Idaho has an annual shortfall of approximately $543 million, about half of which is needed just to maintain the infrastructure in its present condition.

To register for the roundtable discussion, visit the Idaho Business Review website.