Positive movement toward a balanced federal budget could have negative effects on federal highway dollars flowing to Utah. That is fiscal reality.
But the Beehive State should still reap its fair share of transportation funds if its needs are well-documented in Washington. That is the responsibility of our congressional delegation, working in concert with state political and transportation officials.That being so, Rep. Merrill Cook's assertion that the $4.3 billion in federal money it seeks for highway and mass-transit enhancements may be tough to come by merits consideration by local officials. Cook said he was merely conveying warnings from House transportation committee leaders that Utah's funding package is not a done deal. As the only Utah member of Congress on a transportation authorization committee, he rightfully passed that word promptly along.
While not a distress signal, Cook's comments should serve as a reminder that when playing with the federal government, "it ain't over 'til it's over." National monument making is evidence of that.
And the issue of congressional transportation dollars for Utah - 2002 Winter Olympics aside - is far from over.
While we hope Cook's concerns do not bear out, officials cannot begin building support for funding needs too early. In fact, Utah's requests for federal appropriations are coming rather late in the game. As leaders pursue that process, they also should heed the call to have in place backup funding solutions to fill any gaps and to prioritize projects in case something needs to be cut.
First and foremost as they proceed, the delegation must maintain its credibility by not overstating transportation needs in an attempt to profiteer from the Olympics connection. There definitely are legitimate needs tied to welcoming the world to Utah's doorstep in 2002 that should be funded, along with critical needs driven by the exponential growth along the Wasatch Front. But all proposals should be considered on their merits.
Among the $4.3 billion requested is $1 billion for light rail; $970 million to help rebuild I-15 in Salt Lake County; $565 million for commuter rail between Ogden and Provo; $261 million to rebuild US 89 between South Ogden and Farmington; and $24 million for reconstruction of the I-80/I-215 interchange at the mouth of Parleys Canyon.
Those and other projects are more than valid; they are critical, as Congress reauthorizes the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act this year. Utah representatives need to continue pushing vigorously for their funding and for the full $4.3 billion. But they should also begin now to develop several contingency plans in case those funding needs fall short due to Washington politics.