Wisconsin looking to plug $680M transportation shortfall

MADISON, Wis. -- Gubernatorial candidates aren't offering specifics on how to address Wisconsin's projected transportation budget shortfall.

Department of Transportation Secretary Mark Gottlieb told the Wisconsin State Journal last week that the state is considering hiking the gas tax and registration fees to make up for a projected budget shortfall that could be as high as $680 million in the next budget and $15.3 billion in 10 years. Plus, the National Highway Trust Fund is set to dry up later this year, potentially worsening the problem.

The projections create a tricky campaign issue for Republican Gov. Scott Walker and his Democratic opponent Mary Burke, a former state Commerce secretary and Trek Bicycle Corp. executive. They'll have to walk the line between calling for low taxes and finding much-needed revenue through higher fees, taxes and, potentially, tolls on interstate highways.

http://www.twincities.com/localnews/ci_25883906/wisconsin-looking-plug-680m-transportation-shortfall