Group Pleased With Legislature Transportation Funding

A Kansas coalition that’s been a vocal advocate for continued spending on highway projects is pleased that legislators preserved funding for the state’s ongoing transportation program.

Economic Lifelines issued a statement after lawmakers adjourned their annual session this week praising them for keeping the state’s 10-year, $8.2 billion program intact. The program started in 2010.

Executive Director Michelle Butler said lawmakers’ actions mean Kansas communities will be able to count on seeing vital transportation projects completed and jobs generated from those projects.

The group also praised Gov. Sam Brownback and Transportation Secretary Mike King.

The program has been financed partly with sales tax revenues. Some legislators suggested during debates on tax policies that the money could be diverted, but lawmakers didn’t take that step.