A Republican Making Sense ?

I think it's become obvious to anyone who drives that TxDOT has let our Texas roads fall behind where they should be. There are many roads and bridges in bad need of repair, and in some areas, the roads just aren't capable of handling the ever increasing traffic. Both parties know something has to be done -- the question is what.

The governor and most of his Republican cronies thought they had the solution a few years ago. They wanted to turn many roads over to private companies who would build new toll roads or turn existing roads into toll roads. The highlight of this plan was the boondoggle called the Trans-Texas Corridor. The only problem was they forgot to ask Texans what they wanted, and they quickly found out Texans don't want private companies building toll roads.

Our governor would still like to build the private toll roads. He just wants to do it slower and more secretively -- maybe do it in smaller pieces and under the people's radar.

Frankly, this is the most expensive way for Texas motorists (and the most lucrative for his corporate buddies). It would be cheaper for everyone to just raise the gas tax and build free roads, but few legislators in Austin have the political courage to do that (from either party).

However, it looks like at least one legislator is trying to do the right thing, and surprisingly, he is a Republican -- Senator John Carona of Dallas. Carona has just sent a letter to his colleagues in both houses with a proposal that could put Texas on the right path, or at least make a start down that path. His proposal is to:

* index the motor fuel tax so it increases with inflation (this may be the only way to raise the tax until the legislators grow a spine).

* make TxDOT a more efficient agency with fewer employees.

* get TxDOT to raise funds by fully levering its debt capacity.

* minimize toll roads & private partnerships.

* amend Tx Constitution to prevent diversion of transportation funds to other uses.

Now I'm not crazy enough to believe this proposal will solve all our road problems, but it is a hell of a lot better than building private toll roads. It is a start -- a step in the right direction.