Governor Rendell Releases Poll Showing Transportation Funding Support

Pennsylvanians Back Increases for Infrastructure

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today released results of a poll that tested Pennsylvanians' attitudes toward their transportation infrastructure and its funding needs.

It was taken by noted Republican pollster Frank Luntz, who also appears as a Fox News television analyst, and Jefrey Pollock, a Democratic pollster from Global Strategy Group.

The poll found that an overwhelming number of Pennsylvanians believe that the quality of our transportation infrastructure matters to our state's economy -- 95 percent -- and that they are concerned about the condition of roads and bridges – 87 percent, with 51 percent saying they were very or extremely concerned.

The poll also found that Pennsylvanians were willing to support revenue options that will increase funding to meet those transportation needs.

Seventy-four percent of Pennsylvanians support a new tax on the profits of oil companies that would close existing loopholes and pay for transportation improvements.

Pennsylvanians also support increasing vehicle and driver fees in accord with inflation to fund transportation infrastructure needs – 48 to 45 percent.

The Governor said the poll reinforces his belief that the time is now to properly fund the state's growing transportation challenges, and that the public – even in the current economic atmosphere – support reasonable revenue increases to meet those needs.

Media contacts:  Barry Ciccocioppo or Gary Tuma; 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor