Looking at an unanticipated budget surplus of around $4 billion, Colorado Governor Jared Polis has unveiled a sweeping stimulus plan that includes roughly $200 million for any number of transportation infrastructure projects.
“We’re going to make it easier for Coloradoans and visitors to travel our great state, accessing the ski resorts and public lands that we love, while reducing traffic and improving our vibrant, beloved main streets in the process,” Polis said in introducing his proposals.
In what is an overall $1.3 billion stimulus plan, Polis wants to see $130 million targeting rural road and bridge upgrades classified as “shovel ready.”
Because of its status as one of the top growth states in the country, enjoying a 16% population increase in the last decade, Colorado has also been seeing a commensurate increase in the use of its highways and roads.
The growth has been most pronounced in the eastern slice of the state with roads and bridges that are a part of Interstate 70 in the most need of upgrading and new construction.
Polis additionally called on lawmakers to approve $140 million for clean energy project loans, along with another $120 million to build out Colorado’s broadband infrastructure.
“I look forward to working with you to accelerate electrification, expand multimodal transit options, save commuters money on gas, reduce emissions, and improve air quality,” Polis continued.
Polis has also repeatedly emphasized his goal of wanting to see the state’s electricity grid run entirely on renewable resources in the next two decades.
The Governor’s budget proposals are now being reviewed by the Colorado State Legislature, which will be in session until May 12.
By Garry Boulard
