Breakthrough in Maryland on Metro funding, as Hogan and legislature come together

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) and the Democratic-controlled legislature came together Friday to support a bill that would give Metro permanent funding of $150 million a year on condition that Virginia and the District contribute the same or more.

The movement in Annapolis — in which Hogan shifted his position on the size and duration of the funding — marks a major step toward Metro’s goal of obtaining a substantial, dedicated revenue source in this year’s General Assembly sessions in Maryland and Virginia.

Maryland leaders expressed hope that their action would encourage Virginia to approve increased funding for Metro, as well. Lawmakers in Richmond will hold key negotiations next week that will determine how much their state will contribute, and with what conditions.

The District, an outspoken supporter of dedicated funding for the transit agency, is expected to go along with whatever the states decide.

Read more: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/breakthrough-in-maryland-on-metro-funding-as-hogan-and-legislature-come-together/2018/03/02/ef1c5e7a-1e36-11e8-ae5a-16e60e4605f3_story.html