Recommendation
City staff recommends that the Mayor and Council endorse the principles set forth by Maryland Public Interest Research Group.

Change in Law or Policy
This endorsement is consistent with the Strategy for a Sustainable Rockville and other policy positions taken by the Mayor and Council in the recent past.

Discussion
The Maryland Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) calls for Congress to follow three guiding principles when drafting future transportation authorizations and funding transportation-related appropriations.

First, PIRG advocates that priority be given to mass transit projects, including light rail, commuter rail, rapid bus service, and high-speed intercity rail. Given Rockville’s proximity to the Washington, D.C. metro area, our residents and businesses would likely benefit from such a priority.

Second, PIRG encourages that the repair, restoration, and revitalization of existing transportation systems be prioritized over new transportation projects. Again, Rockville is likely to benefit from this funding approach since most of our concerns involve existing infrastructure rather than new projects.

Finally, PIRG desires that transportation funding be spent on efforts that reduce the nation’s dependence on oil, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, alleviate congestion, improve safety, and support sustainable communities.

Endorsing these positions is consistent with the “green” philosophies approved or endorsed by the Mayor and Council, including the Strategy for a Sustainable Rockville, other similar positions the Mayor and Council have taken on global climate change, the Maryland Clean Cars Bill, and infrastructure repair and improvement. It also is consistent with the City’s position to promote transportation systems that are multimodal, accessible, and friendly to all users.

Mayor and Council History
This is the first time this item has been brought before the Mayor and Council.

Boards and Commissions Review
Due to the short turn-around time for this item, staff did not have the opportunity to bring this item to the Commission on the Environment; however, they will be informed of this action at its upcoming meeting.

Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this agenda item.

Next Steps
The Mayor, on behalf of the Council, sign a letter of endorsement to PIRG (Attachment A).

Attachments

Department Head:



Craig Simoneau, P.E.; , Director of Public Works
Approved on: 01/21/2009

Assistant City Manager:


Jenny Kimball, Assistant City Manager
Approved on: 01/21/2009

City Manager:

Scott Ullery, City Manager
Approved on: 01/21/2009