If you?re wondering why there isn?t any money for North Carolina roads and transportation needs, it might have something to do with the priorities in projects elected officials decide to fund.  The Wilmington Star News reports that DOT money and assets are being promised to build an airplane museum and replica of the White House in Wilmington. 

Seems the Transportation Advisory Committee which is responsible for setting highway and transportation priorities has endorsed the project.  If this goes through, 35 acres that the DOT bought for $1 million with taxpayer money two years ago will be given to the museum builders.  The money for the actual buildings will come from private donors.  (Proponents are counting on former crew members of Air Force One and airplane construction companies to pony up.)  Still uncertain is whether local governments (i.e. taxpayers) will be on the hook for any expenses.  Didn?t we just see a similar failed and shameful use of taxpayer money with the Randy Parton Theatre boondoggle?  Seems like the difference is road and transportation money will be used this time, at least to get the project started.

Of note:  While southeastern North Carolina elected officials are debating whether to divert DOT assets away from road needs for this museum, NC House Speaker Joe Hackney is in Washington begging for federal money to fix the state?s worst bridge.    

It?s a little hard to stomach the tax and fee increases the 21st Century Transportation Committee is considering recommending to the 2009 General Assembly when state leaders continue wasting valuable transportation dollars on just plain stupidity.