Boosting Arizona: The Winning Impact of Transportation Infrastructure Investments

In the wake of recent election results, Arizonans find common ground on transportation infrastructure funding. Amidst varying reactions to higher-profile candidates, local ballot measures have garnered significant voter support.

Strong Endorsement for Transportation Funding

In cities like Flagstaff and counties such as Maricopa and Pinal, tailored ballot measures reflect local needs and conditions. For instance, Maricopa County voters favored the continuation of a half-cent sales tax. Remarkably, this tax allocates 40.5% toward freeways and the state highway system, while 37% supports public transportation options like bus and vanpool services.

Moreover, 22.5% of the funds are designated for improving arterial streets and regional transportation infrastructure. Although proposals may vary, the collaborative objective of creating a balanced plan for the community ultimately takes precedence over individual desires.

Push for Electrification of Transportation

As new transportation measures unfold, the job market will experience both maintenance and growth. Improvements will not only restore old infrastructure but also introduce innovative options for Arizona residents and visitors alike. Additionally, Arizona is becoming a leader in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, thanks in part to initiatives from the Arizona Commerce Authority to attract these industries.

The state’s landscape, stretching from Yuma to Casa Grande and Buckeye, showcases a burgeoning EV market. Arizona ranks among the top 10 states nationwide for EV registrations, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. A recent report by Atlas Public Policy highlights Arizona’s infrastructure, featuring approximately 3,800 public charging ports across 1,300 locations.

To bolster the EV industry and ease access for drivers, Arizona has secured over $200 million for various EV projects. The Arizona Department of Transportation is collaborating with private entities to establish EV charging stations along interstate highways. Beneficiaries of the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program include organizations such as the city of Mesa and the San Carlos Apache Tribal Council, signifying local economic advantages and job creation.

A Unified Approach Moving Forward

The overwhelming support for transportation measures mirrors the backing for the EV industry. Diverse motivations, ranging from job creation to improved air quality and public health, unite Arizonans in pushing for progress. Continued collaboration among citizens and leaders will propel the state’s transportation system into the future.

Amerigo Berdeski serves as operations manager for the American Council of Engineering Companies of Arizona, while Diane E. Brown holds the position of executive director at the Arizona Public Interest Research Group Education Fund.