2012 Maine Revised Statutes
TITLE 23: HIGHWAYS
Chapter 24: MAINE TURNPIKE
23 §1965-A. Widening of the turnpike between Exit 1 and Exit 6-A

Part 1: STATE HIGHWAY LAW

§1965-A. Widening of the turnpike between Exit 1 and Exit 6-A

1. Evaluation of reasonable alternatives. No later than December 15, 1996, the authority shall complete an evaluation of the reasonable alternatives specified in this subsection to widening the turnpike to 3 lanes for each direction of travel from Exit 1 to, and including, Exit 6A. To evaluate reasonable alternatives, the authority shall:

A. Complete an evaluation of the conversion of the turnpike toll collection system to an automated electronic system designed to move traffic more efficiently through toll plazas; [1995, c. 613, §3 (AMD).]

B. Complete an alternative mode feasibility study that examines regional travel patterns and demographics and provides an inventory of existing transportation infrastructure and employer-based commuter programs in the study area; [1995, c. 341, §2 (NEW).]

C. Develop and implement a rideshare program to promote vanpooling and carpooling, including funding and completion of a park and ride facility at Exit 2; and [1995, c. 341, §2 (NEW).]

D. Complete a 2-year study of the effects of congestion pricing on the turnpike and travel needs of the southern part of the State. [1995, c. 341, §2 (NEW).]

In conducting the evaluation required by this subsection, the authority shall provide for public participation consistent with the Sensible Transportation Policy Act and the rules adopted pursuant to that Act.

Completion of the evaluation components specified in paragraphs A to D satisfies the alternative evaluation requirements of the Sensible Transportation Policy Act and of the rules adopted pursuant to that Act.

[ 1995, c. 613, §3 (AMD) .]

2. Review of alternatives. Upon completing the evaluation required under subsection 1, the authority shall review the alternatives to determine if the alternatives can meet the identified transportation deficiency or need in a safe manner at a reasonable cost with available technology. If, based on the evaluation, the authority finds that the alternatives do not meet the identified deficiency or need:

A. A final license, permit, or approval necessary for the widening or expansion of the turnpike may be issued by the appropriate state agency; and [1995, c. 341, §2 (NEW).]

B. The alternative evaluation and preference requirements of section 73 and rules adopted pursuant to section 73 are considered satisfied. [1995, c. 341, §2 (NEW).]

[ 1995, c. 341, §2 (NEW) .]

SECTION HISTORY

1995, c. 341, §2 (NEW). 1995, c. 613, §3 (AMD). 1997, c. 493, §A2 (AMD). 1997, c. 493, §A3 (AFF).