State Senator
Toni Boucher, Ranking Member of the Transportation Committee
I would like to thank the CT Public Transportation
Commission for providing residents and commuters with
an opportunity to share our thoughts regarding the need
for efficient and convenient mass transportation in
Fairfield County.
As the State Senate’s Ranking Member of the General
Assembly’s Transportation Committee, I am very
interested in learning more about the views expressed
at this public forum. I would also like to take the
liberty of making just a few brief comments.
As many of you know, I am a long-time advocate of updating
and expanding our train service and train stations,
dating back to my years on my local Board of Selectmen
and, later, in the State House. Despite the tough times
we are living through, we must continue to plan for
and fund necessary improvements and upgrades. Not only
is this a good investment, there is an economic imperative
to do so. As our economy is revived, Connecticut needs
to be prepared to take advantage of the new opportunities
that will come our way.
That means knowing if – and where – light
rail would be feasible. It means newer, faster trains;
better, more convenient schedules; modern rail stations
with adequate parking; and good bus service. The benefits
are clear. An integrated multi- modal transportation
system will encourage hubs of business, retail and residential
development. We will also alleviate highway traffic
by encouraging more commuters to use the trains, help
our environment by making more efficient use of energy,
and make our state more attractive.
No public hearing on transportation would be complete
without addressing the subject of the reintroduction
of tolls. I believe a cautious approach is prudent.
Several public hearings on this subject have shown the
complexity of this proposal. Great concern has been
expressed that highway drivers would take detours through
nearby towns in order to avoid paying tolls, on roads
that are already too congested. That would benefit no
one, and would cause a great deal of harm to municipalities
that are not equipped to handle the increased traffic.
There is also the possible loss of federal funds and
the impact on Connecticut’s economy and mass transit
to consider. The preponderance of public feedback has
led me to request a study on the legal and financial
implications of such a course of action.
I look forward to putting some of the suggestions presented
this evening into action as we work to improve mass
transportation in our state.
Again, thank you for holding this public forum. If
there are any questions and concerns you would like
to share directly, I can be reached at my legislative
office at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Toni.Boucher@cga.ct.gov.
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