HB 2239 - DIGEST

     Declares a desire to empower local regions to accomplish transportation projects by enabling them to raise revenue and choose projects locally and to provide state resources to help fund certain of these projects.

     Finds that many transportation decisions are best made at the regional level, where transportation problems are best understood.  To achieve improved regional mobility, promote individual and economic well-being, and to implement recommendation number six of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Transportation final report, relating to regional transportation solutions, congestion relief boards are created.

     Declares that it is the public policy of this state to encourage and facilitate transportation improvements, including making optimum use of existing facilities.  It is the purpose of congestion relief boards to select projects, oversee their implementation, generate revenues for a limited period of time, assist in the financing of transportation improvements, and improve transportation mobility in congested areas.