Rapid CEO Appointed to State Transportation Funding Task Force

The Rapid's CEO, Peter Varga, has been appointed by Governor Granholm to the newly-formed Task Force to Review the Adequacy of Surface Transportation and Aeronautics Service Provision and Finance in Michigan.

The task force is a nine-member group that will review strategies for maximizing the return on transportation investments and evaluate the potential of alternate strategies to replace or supplement the state motor fuel taxes, existing and alternative user fees and nonuser revenues to support economic activity and personal mobility in the state. Other appointees include representatives of manufacturing, agriculture, commerce, and tourism among others.

The task force will be aided by a citizens' advisory committee made up of 19 members that will review and comment on all reports, studies, and recommendations of the task force.

"I am pleased to accept this appointment. The effective movement of people and goods is a critical part of our state's success and we need to insure that our transportation infrastructure across the whole network—roads, air, public transportation, and rail—is properly funded," commented Varga.

The appointment stands confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days. His term expires at the pleasure of the Governor.