Connecticut Candidates on the Issues - Joe Courtney (D, 2nd House District)
Joe Courtney
Joe Courtney is the Democratic incumbent in Connecticut's 2nd U.S. House District. He faces Janet Peckinpaugh (R).
1. If elected, what would you do to help pass a full funded transportation bill?
Our state’s building and construction industries have been hard-hit by the economic downturn. While the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act invested critical funding into transportation projects in eastern Connecticut, the lack of a long-term transportation bill continues to pose a challenge to the industry, the state of Connecticut, and our communities. I strongly support action on a new transportation bill that will invest in our state’s aging transportation infrastructure while also getting people back to work.
2. If elected, what suggestions do you have to sustainably fund the next federal transportation bill?
We must ensure that the Highway Trust Fund has a path towards long-term sustainability if we are going to pass a new transportation bill that invests in our nation’s infrastructure. There are a number of proposals to address this issue that should be carefully considered, and it is my hope that Congress will get moving on this important challenge next year.
3. If elected, would you support federal transportation policy that prioritizes maintenance and repair of existing roads, highways and bridges over new construction and expansion?
Connecticut’s repair backlog is deeply concerning and I support ensuring that the state has the resources it needs to bring our roads, bridges and highways back to a state of good repair. However, I also support critical expansion projects in the district I represent, such as the completion of Route 11. This project has significant impact for the region, and would enhance the transportation network in the southeast region of the state.
4. Do you support reprioritization of transportation dollars towards increased investments in public transportation? If you, how would you achieve this? What percentage of federal transportation funds should go towards transit?
I strongly support a diverse and robust intermodal transportation portfolio as part of the allocation of our federal transportation dollars.
5. If elected, would you support increased funding for federal Safe Routes to Schools program?
I strongly support the Safe Routes to Schools program, which has made a positive impact in my district. I support ensuring that the program has the resources and funding it needs to impact communities across Connecticut and the country.
6. Do you support federal incentives that encourage land use and transportation planning towards more transportation choices and less car dependency?
Yes.
7. What measures would you propose at the federal level to help reduce pedestrian fatalities?
It is critical that pedestrian access and safety be a central part of transportation planning. Passage of “complete streets” initiatives and other proposals aimed at created livable communities should be a top priority in transportation policy in Congress.
8. Do you support or oppose...
...The New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Rail project? Support.
...The Hartford-New Britain Busway project? No position.
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