3-part package to invest in transportation, jobs, education and
environment

The Legislature enacted an historic bond package Wednesday night to invest in Maine's transportation, economic and environmental infrastructure.  If approved by voters, the state's $295 million plan would draw $411 million in matching funds from federal and private sources, for a total $706 million investment into Maine economy over the coming years.  The package was enacted 138-6 in the House and 33-0 in the Senate.

The broad bipartisan support it received it is an important statement about our commitment to working together in this Legislature. 

The bond package will leverage considerable funds from other sources to supplement the funds that would be put up by the state.  The $136 million in state funds for transportation projects is expected to be matched by nearly $257 million in federal transportation dollars.  The $50 million in state funds for research and development funds will be matched dollar for dollar by the federal government.   

I am proud to support the package based on a balance of both critical needs and targeted investments. These investments to create new jobs, support higher education, preserve Maine's traditional landscapes and working waterfront, and maintain roads and bridges will have a lasting impact on the economy of tomorrow. 

The Legislature was required to enact a bond package by the first week in April in order for the ballots to be prepared and distributed in time for a June referendum.  The Legislature took swift action in developing the plan after the Governor presented his package on March 26. 

The package will go to voters in three parts, in June 2007, November 2007 and June 2008.