Purpose

An emergency measure, appropriates $388,000 in FY 2001-2002 from the safety enforcement and transportation infrastructure fund (SETIF) to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) for a feasibility study on border and trade issues and expenses associated with the state truck safety inspection facility.

Background

Legislation adopted in 1996 established the SETIF for enforcement of vehicle safety requirements by the Department of Public Safety and ADOT within 25 miles of the border between Arizona and Mexico. Statute also authorizes use of the fund for maintenance and upgrades of transportation facilities, including roads, streets and highway within 25 miles of the border and maintenance and construction of transportation facilities in the CANAMEX high priority corridor.

The Nogales/Santa Cruz County region has experienced steady growth in population and economic development as a result of international trade, its location on the US/Mexico border and its unique cultural and recreational resources. Because transportation infrastructure has not kept pace with the growth in regional traffic, public agencies responsible for maintaining safe and efficient transportation systems face significant challenges associated with traffic congestion, safety, access and adverse environmental impacts.

The strike-everything amendment to S.B. 1101 appropriates $350,000 for a feasibility study on border and trade issues and $38,000 for maintenance and utility expenses at the state truck safety inspection facility in FY 2001-2002 from the SETIF to ADOT.

Provisions

1. Appropriates $350,000 in FY 2001-2002 from the SETIF to ADOT for a feasibility study on border and trade issues.

2. Appropriates $38,000 in FY 2001-2002 from the SETIF to ADOT for maintenance and utility expenses at the state truck safety inspection facility at the Nogales-Mariposa port of entry.

3. Specifies the elements of the feasibility study.

4. Contains an emergency clause.

NS/DJ/ac