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$4 Billion DOT Road Plan "Big Mistake"

By Mike Wagner

Story Created: Jan 23, 2008 at 11:15 AM CST

Story Updated: Jan 23, 2008 at 11:15 AM CST

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) _ Iowa's transportation plan that calls
spending 4 billion dollars over the next 20 years on highways is
under fire.
Critics say it's too narrowly focused and doesn't address
environmental issues and alternative forms of transportation
They say the plan only raises money to build and repair roads,
and not enough for public transportation, railroads, walking and
biking trails, aviation or other options.
Mark Kresowik of the Sierra Club of Iowa says not increasing
alternatives is a ``fairly big mistake.''
DOT Director Nancy Richardson says the agency's plan, dubbed
TIME-21, addresses a lack of money to maintain the state's road
network.
Lawmakers have rejected an increase in the state's gasoline tax
to fund the program, and are exploring possible increases in
driver's license and car license fees.

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