LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says he will ask lawmakers to pass a new infrastructure package this year to accelerate long-delayed construction work on bridges and roads.

Ricketts announced his support Thursday for a comprehensive roads bill to be introduced by Sen. Jim Smith of Papillion, chairman of the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee.

The proposal would create an infrastructure bank, allowing the state to tap its cash reserve to pay for road and bridge projects faster than it currently can. Money in the reserve would gradually be replenished with state fuel tax revenue.

The infrastructure bank could be used for state highway projects, county bridge repairs and infrastructure to attract new businesses.

The legislation also would allow roads contractors to design and build projects in an effort to increase efficiency.