CT HB07138

Establishes a Transportation Policy Advisory Council within the Executive Department, effective October 1, 2017, consisting of 12 voting members appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor, plus ex-officio members from relevant state agencies and the General Assembly transportation committee.

Requires the Commissioner of Transportation to develop an assessment method by February 1, 2018, to evaluate transportation projects on their impact to economic development, housing, employment access, environment, traffic congestion, and public safety; the method requires approval from the joint standing committee on transportation.

Mandates that beginning July 1, 2018, all transportation projects that expand capacity on highways, transit, railroads, or parking facilities, or cost $150 million or more must be assessed using the approved method before inclusion in the five-year capital plan.

Prohibits the Department of Transportation from requesting appropriations or bond authorization for transportation projects unless the assessment has been completed and submitted to the Transportation Policy Advisory Council and posted on the department's website.

Requires annual reports to the General Assembly from both the Transportation Policy Advisory Council and the Commissioner of Transportation on transportation project assessments and council activities.