What a new single penny sales tax will make possible
In November, Broward County voters will be asked to vote on a one cent sales tax to fund transportation improvements within the county. While this is mainly a county- led initiative, there are partnerships with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization and Broward’s 31 municipalities.
What does a penny sales tax make possible?
First, it is important to understand the current state of Broward: our roadways are operating at capacity, we have added 10,000 new jobs this year with more to come. Broward is expected to grow by over 252,000 people between now and 2030. Our city and county roads need attention and we really have reached a precipice: our roadways are no longer able to match the volume of cars on the road.
There is no doubt of the need for transportation improvements, and as the Executive Director of the Broward MPO, I am very aware of the need for connectivity in our region. We have a real necessity for additional transportation options and improvements to address traffic congestion. Transportation is the backbone of this region, and so we come to the penny sales tax, which, if it passes, will be a large source of funds to make many of these solutions a reality.
The penny sales tax would generate $16 billion over 30 years and would allow for many projects such as: capacity improvements, traffic signal upgrades, dedicated transit lanes, safety improvements in our communities, fiber optic connectivity to synchronize our traffic lights, a network of bike paths and so much more. Public transit would see over $2 billion in both new and improved buses and routes to better serve the residents of Broward. Light rail will also be an element of this plan, however unlike the WAVE, all the cities in Broward would be working together to create a system that is regional in focus and is a fit for all.
Understanding that currently, these are possibilities, not promises and will require a strong partnership between all the governments within our region. The Broward MPO will play a part as the regional transportation planning organization. The municipal and county elected officials who make up the MPO board bring expertise and knowledge that will help build a better transportation system.
In looking to the future, there are needs to be met, and if we stay focused on improving our region we can keep South Florida moving and ensure Broward is a great place to live, work and play.