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Transit Update

Do you want better transportation choices in your community?

Idaho is one of only 2 states without a dedicated local or state source of funding for public transportation.  Yet, in every community throughout Idaho, critical transportation needs are going unmet.

Governor Otter introduced his transportation funding legislation today.  As Idaho legislators consider different funding options for transportation and mobility improvement in the state, ask them to remember that enabling communities to use local option taxation as a tool to solve local transportation needs does not cost the state any money. Legislation enabling the local option sales tax tool is fiscally responsible and directly benefits Idahoans.

What you can do:

Handwritten letters and personal emails are the best way to contact legislators. 

Please write a letter and send it to your legislator.

Email:  http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/howtocontactlegislators.htm

Mail:  (Name) Idaho State Legislature
Capitol Annex
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, Idaho
83720-0038 (House) 83720-0081 (Senate)

Ask your legislator to support legislation authorizing local option sales taxation for public transit and other local needs.

Local option taxation will:

1.         Save Idahoans Money

In these tough economic times, Idahoans need low-cost transportation choices that allow them use more of their household income on basic needs like groceries and medical care.  Help people drive less, avoid unpredictable gas prices, and stay healthy in their own neighborhoods through expanded construction of public transit and transportation alternatives. 

2.         Empower Local Solutions for Local Issues

Idahoans are proud of their state because of the high value placed on allowing local communities to make choices on local issues. Statutory local option sales tax authority would continue this tradition by allowing communities to select the transportation solutions that work best for them.

3.         Preserve Idaho’s Air Quality

Air pollution is a problem in a number of Idaho communities – risking human health and the economic burden associated with federal “non-attainment” status. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has described transportation as the #1 source of pollution in the state. By promoting enabling legislation for local option sales tax, communities are allowed to make transportation choices that preserve air quality in their backyard.

How to stay involved on public transportation funding issues:

Idaho Smart Growth has developed an email list focused on transit.  As you may know, Idaho is one of only four states that does not have a local or state dedicated source of funding for public transportation. Without enough funding, we simply cannot create a transportation system that gets people where they need to go.

During the legislative session, brief updates are sent weekly. During the rest of the year, periodic emails are sent.

If you would like to be added to the list, please email Rachel at rachel at idahosmartgrowth.org.

As a member of this list, you will receive:

• Weekly information emails to the team during the legislative session.

• Notice of events and activities where you can learn more.

• Highlights of the activities of volunteers like you- activities that are critical to the success of this work.

If you care about public transportation, we need your help to educate and involve the community.

Why should you help?

• Because between 1980 and 2005, Idaho has seen a 114% increase in the amount of vehicle miles traveled.
• Because your normal drive is taking longer, you get caught in traffic more frequently, or you’ve been feeling the health effects of too many bad air days.
• Because you want a public transportation system that takes you where you want to go, when you need to go there, at an affordable price.
• Because you will be a part of the team that will shape the future of public transportation in the Treasure Valley.