On behalf of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, I applaud Gov. Jim Doyle on several major transit announcements last week and his efforts to address southeastern Wisconsin’s transit shortcomings.
In his recent State of the State Address, Gov. Doyle demonstrated key leadership by continuing to work for transit legislation that would provide dedicated funding and property tax relief to save our local transit systems and bring about the KRM (Kenosha-Racine-Milwaukee) commuter rail, efforts that my members overwhelmingly support.
I would also like to congratulate the governor for securing more than $800 million in federal dollars to build a high-speed rail line between Milwaukee and Madison.
This investment in transit further illustrates the need for a fully functional infrastructure, starting with an adequately funded bus system, to strengthen and revitalize our economy.
I am hopeful that Gov. Doyle’s leadership on this issue will be reflected by legislative action in the current session.
Transit legislation currently in the works in Madison reflects the collective appeal from the local business, labor and civic communities who understand that dedicated funding for transit is critical to the future of our region.
As echoed by my colleagues at a recent press conference, an adequately funded transit system will preserve and expand job opportunities in southeastern Wisconsin, promote job creation and allow us to be competitive in attracting and retaining top talent.
On behalf of the GMC, I commend the governor for his support of transit solutions for our region and urge the State Legislature to follow his lead. Our region cannot afford to be without the jobs, economic development and property tax relief that will result from the passage of the current transit legislation.
It is now in the hands of our State Legislature to continue upon the momentum created by Gov. Doyle, the business community, labor coalitions and countless southeastern Wisconsin constituents.
Julia Taylor is president of the Greater Milwaukee Committee (GMC), a nonprofit organization of southeastern Wisconsin’s business, labor, academic, philanthropic, nonprofit and civic leaders.
