Illinois passed a capital program in July 2009 – it’s first in 10 years! While we’d like to thank our legislators for investing in our infrastructure, we’d also like to remind them of the need for a solid funding plan. Video gaming is a primary source of revenue and the Gaming Board has indicated their estimate that video poker would be up and running toward the end of calendar year 2010. However, many of the towns have “opted out” and are not permitting gaming, thus a decrease in funding. Less funding means continued potholes and continues congestion. While the bonds have been sold, but the concerns for future funding are fast approaching. Contact your legislator and ask them renew their commitment to the capital bill and fix your local roads.

Roads and bridges in our neighborhoods show the signs of wear and tear. Statewide the statistics are even worse:

• 32% of Illinois major roads are in poor or mediocre condition
• 4,583 bridges in the state are classified as functionally obsolete and/or structurally deficient.

According to an American Economics Group study, Illinois needs $1 billion in new revenue to support a $13.5 billion increase in state spending on all modes of transportation over the next five years.

Our needs don’t match the dollars, something must be done!