Local opinion: Vote yes on Propositions 418 & 419 to keep Pima County moving forward

As the owner of a cut and sew factory here in Tucson, I know firsthand how vital infrastructure is to the success of small businesses. Propositions 418 & 419 aren’t just about roads — they're about keeping our region moving forward. These measures continue the half-cent sales tax we’ve paid for the past 20 years to fund the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) plan. It’s not a new tax; it’s a proven investment in our community’s future.

Since 2006, the RTA has delivered over $1.6 billion in transportation improvements, including 900 miles of roadway upgrades, expanded transit routes, and safer intersections. These projects have reduced congestion, improved commute times, and supported economic growth across Pima County. For every dollar invested in transportation, studies show up to $4 in economic activity is generated. That’s a return that benefits everyone—business owners, employees, and families.

Our region is projected to grow by nearly 200,000 residents in the next 20 years. Without continued funding, we risk falling behind other major metro areas in terms of economic growth and improving the quality of life for our own residents. Propositions 418 & 419 ensure we finish the original plan and expand its scope to meet future needs — improving key corridors like I-10, expanding Sun Tran service, and enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Rejecting this measure means no dedicated funding for two decades, leaving us unprepared for growth and sending a message that we’re not committed to our area’s success.

Transportation is the backbone of commerce. Customers need reliable access to businesses. Employees need safe, efficient routes to work, whether they are driving their own cars, riding public transportation, riding a bike or even just walking. Suppliers need dependable roads to deliver goods. When infrastructure fails, businesses suffer, especially small businesses — and so does the community. Props 418 & 419 keep the momentum going, ensuring that Tucson and Pima County remain competitive and livable.

This was a good idea when first proposed because it created oversight and accountability for a project of this scale. That foresight worked, and now we need to continue it.

Voting yes on both Prop 418 & 419 means we’re investing in our future, our economy, and our quality of life. It means we’re committed to building a region where businesses and families can thrive — not just today, but for generations to come.

Vote yes on Propositions 418 & 419. Let’s keep Pima County moving forward.