"Honest Abes" proclaim vision and wisdom on transportation funding

ISAIAH leaders started off the 2008 legislative session with some truth telling from an iconic American—Abraham Lincoln.  A dozen “Honest Abes” proclaimed vision and wisdom on the issue of transportation funding.

Over the last several years ISAIAH’s Metropolitan Equity Committee has championed a hopeful vision for a statewide transportation system that works for every person.  We know that everyone needs to get to work, school, church, and other daily activities—including those unable to drive.  Equity in access to transportation is foundational to racial and economic justice.

Advocacy efforts continue to focus on dedicated, adequate funding for transit, while supporting a revenue-generating multi-modal transportation funding bill. 

The Senate bill, SF2521, and the House bill, HF2800, would pay for transportation investment with a phased-in 5 cent gas tax for roads, a half-cent metro sales tax for transit and local roads of regional significance and bonding for bridge repair.  A tax credit will assist lowest-income persons.

On February 12, 2008 ISAIAH’s Metro Equity Chair, Sarah Mullins, testified at the Senate Transportation Committee hearing, “The revenue generated in this bill makes a substantial investment in transit and roads—it creates the infrastructure as our legacy—not a massive bonding debt burden for the next generation.” 

She added, “I think the jumper cable analogy others have used is very appropriate.  When on a cold Minnesota night I use my car to jump a co-worker’s battery, both of us get to drive home.  Giving a little of my car battery doesn’t set me behind; it actually opens possibilities for both of us.  This bill will jump start our transportation system.”

Meanwhile, ISAIAH leaders dressed in stovetop hats and beards greeted House members as they entered the House Transportation Hearing.  Even the “Transportation Choices 2020” bus puppet had a costume! 

Leaders wore signs inspired by Abe Lincoln quotes, such as, “You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today,” and; “Don’t be penny-wise and bond foolish.” 

Legislators stopped to talk—including long-time allies like Rep. Erhardt (R-Edina) and Rep. Hornstein (DFL-Mpls).  We also spoke with legislators we are working to bring on as supporters, such as Rep. Abeler (R-Anoka). 

Overall, it was an energetic start to the legislative session, with ISAIAH in the forefront of shaping a hopeful vision of transportation as a tool to build strong, healthy communities in Minnesota.