Yes on Question 3

Do you favor a $56,042,031 bond issue for improvements to highways and bridges, airports and state-owned ferry facilities; development of rail corridors and marine infrastructure; and replacement of public transportation fleets statewide that makes the State eligible for up to $112,000,000 in matching federal funds?

This is the kind of comprehensive, balanced transportation bond Mainers know and love. It’s been 30 years since voters rejected a bond to improve how they get there from here. That winning streak should continue.

Transportation is a statewide concern that afflicts different regions in different ways. This proposal works toward overall improvements in Maine’s transportation infrastructure as it addresses specific local needs. It would upgrade road, rail, marine and airport services statewide while leveraging an impressive amount of federal matching funds.

Of particular interest to northern and eastern Maine should be the component for rail development, which will extend passenger service up the coast and lays the groundwork for the eventual restoration of freight rail. The replacement of the aging bulkhead on the Penobscot River will be a significant step in upgrading Bangor’s waterfront. Bangor International Airport is in line for major maintenance and improvements, the aging Bass Harbor pier is to be replaced. Statewide, there are important rail improvements in the Lewiston area and nearly $9 million worth of upgrades at the Portland waterfront, including cruise-ship and container-handling operations.

But it is roads that sell bond issues, and this one makes a good pitch. One of the largest projects on tap is $9.6 million to upgrade three of the last truly deficient sections of Route 9, including around Township 24 and from Amherst to Aurora. It completes what might be considered Phase 1 of important long-term improvements for moving people and goods from East to West in Maine. Several large projects also are planned for Aroostook County, including major work on sections of Route 1, a $1 million in resurfacing between Meddybemps and Pembroke on Route 214 and a $2.7 million project to improve Route 7 between Dixmont and Plymouth.

There is no organized opposition to Question 3, but supporters worry that the unpopular increase in the gas tax and vehicle registration fees this summer will generate a backlash. That would be an unfortunate reaction. The tax and fee hikes were about catching up. This bond issue is about moving ahead.