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Minutes for HB2373 - Committee on Transportation
Short Title
Creating the transportation planning program.
Minutes Content for Tue, Mar 19, 2019
Chairman Proehl opened the hearing on HB2373. Staff explained the bill and answered questions.
The Chairman recognized Julie Lorenz as the first proponent. (Attachment 1) Secretary Lorenz talked about the Task Force Recommendations, preserving the current assets, completing T-Works, modernizing transportation delivery, transportation technology advancements, local bridge programs, and county investment guarantees. Secretary Lorenz concluded by saying "HB2373 sets the foundation for the State to complete T-Works, but more importantly, the State can start to turn the page to develop the Kansas transportation system for the future."
The next proponent was Scott Heidner. (Attachment 2) According to Mr. Heidner, "HB2373 creates the framework needed for Kansas to plan an aggressive investment in transportation infrastructure moving forward. It upholds the commitments made under T-Works as the top priorities of a new program, while positioning Kansas to do the research and consultation necessary to provide the best value and investment in the decade to come." He made the suggestion that the wording "federal funds" be changed to "non-state" funds.
Michael L. White was the next proponent. (Attachment 3) He said the KCA supports the priorities of the task force and believes this bill provides the necessary framework. He said the KCA has always supported a comprehensive approach to transportation and this bill includes all modes.
The Chairman recognized Jason P. Watkins. (Attachment 4) Mr. Watkins said HB2373 would authorize and direct the Secretary of Transportation to initiate a Transportation Planning Program to plan, develop and operate or coordinate the development and operation of the various modes and systems of transportation in the state. He said of significant note is that the plan additionally would assist cities and counties in meeting their responsibilities for the construction, improvement, reconstruction and maintenance of roads and bridges not on the state highway system.
Jay Hall was the next proponent. (Attachment 5) He said infrastructure is vital to the communities of the State of Kansas. The people and businesses that make up our state rely on a safe and cost effective transportation system. He said it is important to have a comprehensive transportation plan to link the local needs with the overall system.
The next proponent was Eric Smith. (Attachment 6) He said Kansas cities are unique and so too are their transportation systems and needs. He said the one thing all cities share is the need for a consistent and dependable transportation plan at the state level and this bill seeks to provide this for the next ten years.
John Jenks was the next proponent. (Attachment 7) According to Mr. Jenks their members tell them that nothing affects economic opportunity and quality of life in the Kansas City area more than education and transportation. He said the transportation system affects the safety and timeliness of their daily commute to work and it affects the ability of businesses to attract new workforce and get their products to market competitively. He said the KC Chamber is pleased to see this bill call for the state to study future conditions, needs and opportunities and the call for completion of the T-Works programs.
Scott Uhl was the next proponent. (Attachment 8) He said his association supports HB2373 as an important step in the next decade's comprehensive transportation program. He said this bill allows KDOT to start the process in developing the successor to T-Works and that this bill also stipulates the remaining T-Works projects must be started before modernization and expansion projects can begin in a new program.
The Chairman drew the Committee's attention to Written testimony submitted in support of HB2373 by:
Kevin M. Walker, Vice President of Public Policy & Advocacy, Overland Park Chamber of Commerce (Attachment 9)
Jackie Clark, Ash Grove Cement Company (Attachment 10)
Jerry Younger, Kansas Aggregate (Attachment 11)
Curtis Sneden, Chambers of Commerce of Manhattan, Emporia, Topeka and Lawrence (Attachment 12)
Tim McKee, CEO of the Olathe Chamber (Attachment 13)
Jim Zalenski, Travel Industry Association of Kansas (Attachment 14)
Chairman Proehl asked if there were other proponents, opponents or neutrals who would like to speak. No one stepped forward so after all questions were answered the Chairman closed the hearing on HB2373.
The Chairman brought up the Minutes of March 12, 13 and 14, 2019, for approval. Representative Helgerson Moved approval of the Committee Minutes, seconded by Representative Thimesch. Motion carried.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Chairman announced that it was his plan to do Final Action on HB2373 the following day, Wednesday, March 20, 2019.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Committee the meeting was adjourned.
