Herbert kicks off tour to gather ideas for transportation initiative

Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert on Thursday presented the Wasatch Front Regional Council with basic principles behind a proposed administrative initiative for funding transportation. His presentation kicked off a four-week tour of the state during which Herbert will visit with local officials to gather ideas and proposals for the initiative.

The administration's objective for the initiative is to "broaden and increase revenues available to build transportation projects in the State of Utah," according to statement. "This will enhance economic development and maintain our quality of life as we grow."

Potential solutions, as listed in a statement, include the following:

• Public-private partnerships

• Prioritization of road projects. "Start fixing the worst traffic chokepoints and safety issues."

• Toll roads and "high-occupancy toll," or HOT lanes

• A "jump start" on preliminary engineering for major road projects.

• Creation of a "blue ribbon" committee to develop funding recommendations. Also, accountability measures for transit projects.