Sen. Tim Nangle returned to the Legislature for his second term, this time as chair of the Transportation Committee. I appreciate his work leading the bipartisan committee and, specifically, his support for continued investment in Maine’s aging transportation infrastructure. After a career as a paramedic, he truly understands the importance of safe roads and bridges to all Maine residents.

The Transportation Committee has a long tradition of setting aside politics to ensure that opinions are based on the needs of citizens to get to and from work, school and enjoy outdoor recreation safely on our roads, bridges, trails and sidewalks.

In the previous Legislature, the committee initiated the process of securing funding by dedicating proceeds from a portion of the auto sales tax to help fund all modes of transportation. It was a landmark decision, recognizing the growing infrastructure debt that had been passed on to each generation and the backlog of work that needed to be done.

Thirty-five percent of Maine’s major roads are in poor or mediocre condition, and 15% of bridges are rated structurally deficient. Ensuring that funding remains in place to address these issues should be a priority for all Maine people. I appreciate the continued support and work of Sen. Nangle and his colleagues on the Transportation Committee.

Parker Brown
Windham