LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A proposal designed to expedite work on Nebraska roads projects is drawing a wide range of supporters, but some lawmakers are questioning their plan to pay for it.
Members of the Appropriations Committee voiced concerns Tuesday that the bill would pull $150 million from the state's cash reserve to jump-start the program.
The bill by Sen. Jim Smith of Papillion would create a "transportation infrastructure bank" to help finance road projects. The Nebraska Department of Roads would use the money for highway projects, a county bridge matching grant program and infrastructure to attract new businesses. Gov. Pete Ricketts has identified the plan as one of his top priorities this year.
Several senators noted that the department has yet not identified specific projects that would benefit.
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The bill is LB960
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