House approves $68 million highway bond to finish Centennial projects

The Utah House of Representatives voted to approve House Bill 2, a highway financing bill that authorizes a $68 million bond package intended to complete Centennial projects, passing the measure 59–7 on Feb. 25, 1999.

Representative Marta Dilley, who carried the bill on the House floor, described the measure as rolling a small amount of next year’s funding into this year and providing short‑term payback flexibility of roughly five years. She identified language in the bill allowing $26 million to be shifted from an originally planned $44 million in the Centennial Fund, with affected local communities agreeing to pay interest on their share of that portion.

Representative Delray (carrying parts of the explanation) and Representative Hickman said the South Salt Lake County communities had formed a coalition to pay interest on additional bonding, and Dilley confirmed that the Centennial Fund balance and local prioritization flexibility remain. Representative Hogg voiced support for clarifying that certain East Funds would remain intact.

Supporters said the measure matches materials previously distributed to members and is intended to finalize funding for Centennial projects while minimizing long‑term bonding needs. Opponents recorded seven no votes on procedural grounds or due to fiscal priorities.

The House vote sends HB 2 to the Senate for further consideration. The bill’s text includes intent language describing local cost‑sharing and the mechanics for moving funds between the Centennial Fund and local participations; Representative Dilley waived final summation before the roll call.

Next steps: HB 2 will be transmitted to the Senate for review and any amendments; supporters said local communities will coordinate with the Department of Transportation and the Centennial Fund oversight for implementation.