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FTI meetings seek public input

The products of nearly two years of intensive study on transportation funding options for Idaho will presented during a series of six statewide meetings, beginning in April. An independent group of policymakers, transportation officials and Idaho citizens held workshops throughout the state to identify possible funding sources to address the state’s anticipated surface infrastructure needs.

The Forum on Transportation Investment presented its report, including several potential solutions, to the Idaho Transportation Board in January.

The next step in the process is to share the group’s findings with legislators, community leaders and citizens throughout Idaho, beginning April 19 in Lewiston.

Meeting schedule
April 19		Lewiston
May 17		Twin Falls
June 22		Idaho Falls
July 19		Coeur d’Alene
Aug. 16		Boise
Sept. 20		Pocatello
*Times and locations will be announced later*

The purpose of the meetings, according to FTI leaders, is to gather public input on the forum’s recommendations and to learn about local transportation needs. Meetings will begin with a 30-minute summary of the group’s findings, followed by a question-and-answer session.

Transportation board members will ask audience members to provide specific comments about the forum’s recommendations and discuss the transportation needs of their regions.

“It is important that the public and elected officials have an opportunity to learn about the forum’s work and add their thoughts to the recommendations, said Transportation Board Chairman Chuck Winder.

“We encourage forum members and their constituents to attend.”

In addition to the oral responses received at the meeting, written comments also are encouraged. They may be submitted to Public Involvement Coordinator Gwen Smith at the Idaho Transportation Department, 3311 W. State St., Boise, Idaho, 83703, or via e-mail at gwen.smith@itd.idaho.gov

Published 3-24-06