JOHN WILLARD JOHNSON
3200 S.W. FREEWAY • SUITE 2700
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77027
______________________________
TELEPHONE: (713) 627-3303
December 4, 2008
The Honorable John Carona, Chairman
Legislative Study Committee on Private Participation in Toll Projects
c/o Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security
P.O. Box 12068
Capitol Station
Austin, Texas 78711
Dear Chairman Carona:
I have reviewed the draft report received last week and find it to be both well written and logically presented. I was disappointed that the Committee did not find the opportunity to meet near the end of our assignment so that each member might discuss their perspective about testimony presented throughout the process.
When this report serves as the basis for legislative deliberations I would simply caution considerations based on "value." There were several instances in testimony or filed statements that the concept of "value" was put forth. It also appears in the final report. My point is that "value," like "beauty," is in the eyes of the beholder. Without clear definition, value becomes a vague concept instead of a specific one.
Both as a user of our State's infrastructure and as a former member of the Texas Transportation Commission, I support wholeheartedly the primary conclusion presented; that being if Texas is to remain the great place it is to live, work, and raise a family, more resources and emphasis needs to be placed on surface transportation.
As a matter of personal privilege, I would like to thank you for the gracious and experienced leadership that you provided and to the other members for their willingness to participate, listen and contribute to the process.