GAINESVILLE ­-- A statewide transportation forum is scheduled for Jan. 7 at the Gainesville Civic Center.

The event, set for 3-4:30 p.m., will serve as an opportunity for officials to discuss key transportation issues leading up to Georgia’s 2016 legislative session, which starts Jan. 11.

Invited speakers include state Sens. Steve Gooch, R-Dahlonega, and Tommie Williams, R–Lyons, and Rep. Christian Coomer, R-Cassville.

The Georgia Transportation Alliance, an arm of the Georgia Chamber, and the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring the forum.

“These forums will equip business and community leaders with the information needed to discuss the benefits of [House Bill] 170 in their respective communities,” a news release states.

“This will also create a forum for more detailed, in-the-weeds discussions about the mechanics and outcomes of the legislation in various communities.”

HB 170 refers to a new transportation tax system passed this year by Georgia lawmakers that’s expected to generate $757 million more in fiscal 2015-16 in transportation funding and $820 million in fiscal 2016-17.

The law primarily eliminated the state fuel sales tax at the gas pump and enacted a 26-cent excise tax.

The event is free, but those interested in attending must RSVP by Jan. 4 to Garrett Wiley at gwiley@ghcc.com.