Improving our roads

In two years the city of Cape Girardeau will ask voters to renew for the fourth time a transportation tax known as the transportation trust fund.

The city has been remarkably responsible with the planning and execution of projects laid out in TTF initiatives. It started in 1995 as the city pitched a list of projects to be completed with the tax funds. Voters passed, the city delivered and built trust within the community. We've seen major improvements as a result; the widening of Broadway is one of many examples.

City leaders have been approached by some who would like to see the tax expanded to include funding for transit services and airport improvements, as they are key elements to the city's transportation picture. So far, city leaders have indicated that they want TTF-4 to continue to be a simple road and street improvement tax.

The planning for TTF-4 has already begun. It's refreshing to see a governmental body planning two years ahead of a proposal, as opposed to a hastily planned and reactive initiative like voters often see.

There are currently 22 projects on the list being considered. If you have an idea or opinion about what should be addressed in the next initiative, now is the time to find one of your planning and zoning representatives to share those ideas.