JFAC redirects previously approved highway language, reallocates $27.2 million for residential mobility arterial

The Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee on March 24 adopted new language amending earlier transportation allocations to direct funds toward a residential mobility arterial that connects a U.S. highway to a state highway.

Legislative Services Office analyst Brooke Dupree told the committee the committee had earlier accepted language that allocated $13.2 million for a town center arterial and $50 million for a widening and bridge reconstruction project. The replacement language presented on March 24 consolidates both previously approved pieces of language and instead directs $8,000,000 from TECM distributions and $19,200,000 from a general fund transfer toward a residential mobility arterial that links a U.S. highway to a state highway.

Representative Handy initially requested unanimous consent to accept the new language; Senator Wintrow objected, so members proceeded to a formal motion. The motion to adopt the language was moved and seconded, and the committee approved the change. The combined roll calls recorded 16 ayes and 4 nays, 0 abstentions and 0 excused absences; the chair announced the motion will carry a due‑pass recommendation.

Committee members did not add new substantive policy conditions during debate; the change was presented as a reallocation of previously accepted project language and funding sources. Dupree said the $8 million came from TECM distributions and the $19.2 million was drawn from a previously approved general fund transfer.

The committee’s action replaces the prior item language on the record and forwards the revised text with the committee’s recommendation.