Fix-it-First Myths and Facts
Since 1000 Friends of Wisconsin released the first detailed, Wisconsin-specific Fix-it-First issue paper, a few myths have begun to circulate regarding Fix-it-First – specifically its history and future in Wisconsin. 1000 Friends of Wisconsin is pleased that the issue paper has spurred debate; however, we wish to set the record straight regarding these myths.
To learn more about the facts behind the following myths, click on the links:
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Myth #1: Fix-it-First will undermine mobility and safety standards.
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Myth #4: Wisconsin Department of Transportation budgeting procedures provide a clear and accessible distinction between maintenance, repair, and expansion work.
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Myth #5: Spending on the Major Highway Projects program and the Revenue Bond Debt Service used to pay off Major Highway Projects has not grown out of control over the last 15 years.
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Myth #6: Neighboring Michigan’s “Preserve First” initiative was not a major step towards implementing a Fix-it-First policy.
There is one overarching myth that bears mentioning: that Fix-it-First is a stale attempt to undermine highway safety and mobility in order to advance non-highway modes of transportation.
The facts are laid out in these pages: 1) Fix-it-First is not Fix-it-Only; 2) Fix-it-First is fiscally responsible with respect to maximizing investment dollars and in regards to job creation; 3) Fix-it-First will result in a more balanced state highway program; 4) Fix-it-First will result in increased clarity regarding how state transportation dollars are spent; 5) Fix-it-First will bring out-of-control spending on capacity expansion back into check to increase long-term fiscal sustainability; 6) Michigan has implemented a Fix-it-First policy, proving that tough decisions can be made. Fix-it-First is a common sense policy that will improve both the fiscal health of the state of Wisconsin and Wisconsin’s transportation system.
1000 Friends of Wisconsin
16 N. Carroll Street, Suite 810 Madison
WI 53703 608.259.1000