Earlier this month, legislative leaders and the governor agreed on a comprehensive $149.5 million jobs bond that will be sent to the voters for approval in November.
Investing in our state through bond projects is one of the most important tools we have to strengthen our economy. Bond investments create jobs now, especially in the construction industry which has been hit very hard by the recession, and prepares our workforce for the jobs of the future through investments in higher education.
The proposed bond package includes $100 million for infrastructure investments ”“ everything from construction and repair of roads and bridges to investment in passenger rail and airports. A safe and strong transportation network is the foundation for a strong economy, and these critical investments will make necessary improvements to our transportation system, particularly our roads and bridges.
Too many of our roads and bridges are in critical condition. According the American Society for Civil Engineers, Maine gets a C- for the condition of our bridges, and a D for our roads. More than half of our bridges were built 50 years ago, and now nearly one in three of our bridges is structurally deficient or functionally obsolete.
Our roads are in even worse shape, which is not surprising since compared to other New England states, Maine has the largest number of highway miles, but the lowest level of funding per mile. Because of our crumbling roads, Maine drivers spend about $300 more per year repairing their vehicles.
While addressing our transportation needs will put people back to work today, we also want to prepare our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow, which is why we are investing $30 million into the University of Maine System and the Maine Community College System.
With these investments, we will build new science facilities, and upgrade existing classrooms and labs for nursing students and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs. Strong, up-to-date STEM facilities will ensure our students have the knowledge and skills needed for jobs in STEM industries ”“ the jobs of the future.
Also, investing in our community colleges is a triple win. Not only do we renovate and upgrade existing buildings, which provides work for the plumbers, electricians, welders and other graduates of the community colleges, we also expand access to high-demand programs, like nursing, ensuring we continue to provide qualified graduates to fill the jobs in high-demand, high-wage industries.
Finally, we are providing $14 million to maintain and renovate our armories. Our servicemen and servicewomen deserve to train in the best environment we can provide, and these investments will upgrade and modernize existing armories and training facilities.
My fellow lawmakers and I will be meeting in the coming weeks to further vote on these bond proposals, and then we will send them to you for your approval on the November ballot. By putting our differences aside and working together, we have a strong bond package to put more money into our economy, help our workforce and create jobs.
— Sen. David E. Dutremble is a Democrat who represents the communities of Arundel, Biddeford, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. He lives in Biddeford with his wife and children. His column appears on the first Monday of each month.
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