Maine Gov. Paul LePage has signed an $85 million transportation bond bill aimed at improving the state's highways, bridges and ports.
The legislation, which LePage signed on July 1, now must be approved by voters a referendum this November. Investments include $46 million for bridge replacements and rehabilitation along with $17 million to enhance high-priority highways. An additional $17 million in the package is dedicated for ports, harbors, marine transportation, aviation, transit and freight and passenger rail.
"The citizens of Maine have always recognized the importance of a solid, well-built well maintained transportation infrastructure," said Maine Department of Transportation Commissioner David Bernhardt in a statement. "I am confident when asked in November, the voters will continue to allow us to strengthen Maine's economy and build a transportation system that will benefit generations to come."
LePage announced in January a $2 billion three-year capital program of transportation projects. The Republican governor has been clashing with legislators on releasing $11.4 million of voter-approved bonds for land conservation.
Maine general obligation bonds are rated Aa2 by Moody's Investors Service and AA by Standard & Poor's.
