The Transportation Reauthorization Bill and BASICS Act
Pitkin County, led by Board Chair Jeffrey H. Woodruff, urges Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and Representative Hurd to include the BASICS Act (H.R. 7437) in the Surface Transportation Reauthorization while preserving the current state-led, formula-based federal transportation framework. The county emphasizes that state DOTs administer about 85% of formula funds and carry most traffic, but counties—especially rural, high-cost communities like Pitkin—own substantial local road and bridge mileage and face barriers accessing federal funds; BASICS would boost counties’ direct share toward 25%, expand access to bridge and safety programs, reduce barriers for smaller/rural counties, and improve state–local coordination.
A large group of transportation industry groups likewise urges Congress to preserve the longstanding state-administered, formula-based program (roughly 85% state / 15% local), arguing state DOTs provide statewide planning, technical expertise, and rapid emergency response while local governments remain as essential partners. The coalition acknowledges local needs but warns that breaking up the state-based formula risks delaying projects and leaving federal funds unused; it calls for a reauthorization that grows investment while making sure funds are used efficiently and without any significant delays.
Thanks to NWCCOG Council Vice Chair Patti Clapper for bringing the Transportation Reauthorization and BASICS Act to the attention of NWCCOG.