Is the RTA About to Go Broke? Voter Reactions Shock as Election Drama Hits Its Climax!

On Tuesday, Pima County voters faced a crucial decision as they dropped off their ballots for Propositions 418 and 419, which could significantly impact the future of transportation in the region. With opinions divided, many residents expressed mixed feelings about their options.

“I voted yes. I’m not really thrilled, I didn’t think my options were great,”

said Thomas Nickerson, who submitted his ballot at the Pima County Recorder’s Office in downtown Tucson.

The two propositions aim to fund RTA Next—a comprehensive 20-year transportation plan for Pima County through a 0.5% sales tax. This ambitious plan, totaling $2.67 billion, primarily focuses on widening and modernizing roads but also allocates funds to maintain the local public transit system, as well as create new pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.

Originally approved by voters in 2006, the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and its sales tax were set for a 20-year period. RTA Next looks to complete unfinished projects from that plan, including the modernization of Grant Road and the redevelopment of parts of First Avenue, which has yet to begin. If RTA Next does not pass, many of these projects could face significant delays or even cancellation, as noted by RTA board member Ted Maxwell. Tucson's Department of Transportation and Mobility also warns that bus services could see cuts if the propositions fail. Furthermore, while some suburban mayors have expressed a willingness to pursue their own local transportation taxes in the absence of RTA Next, city council members in Tucson are hesitant to take that route.

“When you look at the overall funding and how much would be cut from our transportation and infrastructure, I feel like, let’s see what we can improve upon, let’s see what we can do with the funding we have,”

stated Brittany Caldwell, another voter who supported RTA Next.

As of Monday evening, over 190,000 ballots had already been submitted, accounting for about 29.3% of registered voters in Pima County.

However, opposition remains strong. Critics argue that RTA Next allocates too many resources to expand suburban roads while neglecting the maintenance of existing streets within Tucson, a concern echoed by several voters.

“It looks like a lot of newer projects, but not really maintenance of the things that are going on already,”

remarked Darlene Holtrop, who voted against the propositions. Kate Saunders, who works for Living Streets Alliance, a pedestrian and bicycle advocacy group, voiced similar concerns, emphasizing the need for regional priorities that resonate with Tucson residents:

“I’d like to see something that’s full of regional, shared priorities. That way, if our money is going out of the city of Tucson, it’s for things that are of shared values for Tucson voters.”

Despite the criticisms, RTA Next does set aside nearly $180 million for repaving worn-out streets, particularly in Tucson, a quicker fix compared to larger-scale overhauls. Max Lipitz, a voter and local astronomy association volunteer, noted that this aspect influenced his decision:

“I tend to drive around with my telescope in my car, and I really don’t want to see it all roughed up by the potholes.”

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero has pointed out that the fate of the city's free bus services could hinge on the success of RTA Next. Voter Shawn Campbell expressed the importance of maintaining free transit options without disclosing her vote on the propositions.

Ballots for Propositions 418 and 419 will be accepted until 7 p.m. on March 10 at various locations throughout Pima County.

The campaign supporting RTA Next has also been a financial heavyweight, with backers raising nearly $2 million as of February 21. The pro-RTA Next political action committee, Connect Pima, has received significant contributions from trade groups, particularly those related to the construction and real estate sectors. Notable donors include the Associated General Contractors’ Arizona chapter, which contributed $240,000, and the National Association of Realtors, which donated $100,000.

Connect Pima invested almost $900,000 on advertising for the propositions, employing mailers, signs, and TV commercials to sway public opinion.

As Pima County residents weigh their options, the outcome of this election could have lasting implications for local transportation, making it a pivotal moment for the region.