Photo: WisDOT
After weeks of behind the scene discussions, a state budget panel will meet next week to discuss a request to approve more funding for Wisconsin road projects.
The Joint Finance Committee has scheduled a Wednesday hearing on whether to approve $200 million in bonding by the state Department of Transportation. The money was included in the state budget, but requires JFC approval to be released.
The DOT and Governor Scott Walker have argued the funding is needed to keep work going on several major projects in the state, while some Senate Republicans have voiced concerns about increasing state borrowing. The Legislature reduced the original funding Walker asked for in his state budget amid similar concerns.
While a hearing has been scheduled, it remains unclear if there are enough GOP Senators backing the plan or if some Democratic votes will be needed to get the measure approved by the Finance Committee