Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD1711

Introduced
4/18/23  
Refer
4/18/23  
Refer
4/20/23  

Caption

An Act to Provide for Safe Roadway Construction Design Criteria

Impact

If enacted, LD1711 would have a notable impact on state laws regarding roadway design criteria. It establishes a framework for the design and review of transportation construction projects, integrating aspects such as pedestrian and bicycle safety into the early stages of construction planning. The bill requires compliance with established standards, ensuring that designers consider factors such as lane width, shoulder width, and facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, which would enhance overall road safety.

Summary

LD1711, titled An Act to Provide for Safe Roadway Construction Design Criteria, seeks to enhance roadway safety and multi-modal transportation options within the state. The bill mandates the Department of Transportation to classify public highways based on various safety metrics, including crash data and economic significance. A significant feature of the bill is the development of specific design standards for pedestrian and bicycle facilities, which aim to ensure that these facilities are adequately provided and meet safety requirements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD1711 appears largely positive, with supporters emphasizing the importance of safe and accessible transportation for all users. Advocates argue that the bill could lead to a more integrated transportation network that accommodates various modes of travel, thus fostering greater community engagement with public infrastructure. Nonetheless, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential costs and administrative burden on the Department of Transportation to implement these new standards effectively.

Contention

Despite the broad support for the bill's goals, there are points of contention regarding its execution and potential financial implications. Opponents may argue about the feasibility of meeting the new design requirements within budget constraints or express concerns that overly stringent standards could delay much-needed construction projects. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the adequacy of current funding levels to support the goals set forth in LD1711, particularly in rural locales where resources can be limited.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME HB3555

Public safety; making certain exception for municipal police departments; providing for application for roadway designation as a safety corridor; effective date.

ME SB190

Designates portions of certain roadways in honor of fallen law enforcement officers. (8/1/25) (EN +$4,460 SG EX See Note)

ME SB832

Vulnerable road user safety zones; VDOT to develop criteria & recommendations for designation.

ME HB6874

Roadway Safety Modernization Act of 2025

ME SB3572

Roadway Safety Modernization Act of 2025

ME H3684

Relative to container safety on roadways

ME H4292

Roadway Protection and Safety Act

ME HB1367

Improving motorcycle safety by authorizing the use of the right shoulder of limited access roadways.

ME HB3514

Requires MoDot to obtain the approval of the governing body of a county, city, town, or village prior to constructing any roundabouts on certain roadways

ME HB1245

Memorial highways; designate various segments of public roadway as upon certain conditions.

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