Pennsylvania Targets Local Bridge Funding Gap With New Fix
Pennsylvania lawmakers have approved two bills intended to give counties more flexibility in using state transportation funds for local bridge repairs, addressing spending rules that can leave allocated money unused.
Bills Target Local Bridge Funding Rules
The measures, sponsored by state Sen. Greg Rothman, R-34th District, would clarify provisions governing transportation dollars distributed to counties through the Motor Licensing Fund.
Funding guidance under current law has been unclear in some cases and overly restrictive or incomplete in others, according to a summary of the legislation. Those rules can prevent municipalities and counties from moving forward with needed bridge projects even when transportation funding is available.
Changes to Act 13 Provisions
The legislation would amend Title 58 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes and update provisions established under Act 13 of 2012.
Act 13 limited certain state infrastructure funds allocated to local governments to bridges designated as “at-risk and deteriorated.” The proposed changes are intended to clarify how counties may use the funding for eligible local bridge work.
Potential Impact on Municipal Projects
Supporters say the legislation could help local governments address bridge repair needs more efficiently by removing uncertainty surrounding the use of county transportation allocations.
The bills were approved this week. Additional action is required before the changes can take effect.
