NLC Seeks New Vision For Nation's Transportation Program
by Carolyn Coleman
In anticipation of the upcoming expiration of the federal transportation program, Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act – A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), and the federal debate to develop its successor, NLC’s Board of Directors unanimously adopted a resolution offering a new vision for the future of the program last week at the group’s annual summer meeting.
The current federal transportation program, which expires on September 30, 2009, and authorized $244.1 billion in funding for highways, highway safety and public transportation, represents the largest surface transportation investment in the nation's history. However, with the program’s primary financing vehicle, the Highway Trust Fund, expected to be in the red in 2009 and with the nation’s transportation system assets aging at a rate that requires increasing investment to maintain its current condition, the status quo is not sustainable.
As the owners and operators of 77 percent of the roadways, half of the nation’s bridges and 94 percent of the nation’s transit systems, local governments are important stakeholders in the upcoming debate, which is expected to be a priority for a new Administration and Congress.
Among other recommendations, the resolution calls for a national surface transportation program that encourages a strong federal role with collaboration with state and local governments; incorporates the principles of sustainability, innovative technology, regional decision making and performance measures; and promotes investment in outcome-oriented solutions rather than mode-designated grants.
The NLC Transportation and Infrastructure Services Committee, chaired by Laura Padgett, council member, Wilmington, N.C., developed the resolution in consultation with several NLC policy steering committees and member councils. The committee referred the resolution to the board for action at the mid-year meeting as part of a broader engagement strategy on the issue, which is getting increased attention from federal policymakers and transportation infrastructure stakeholders, including local governments.
In praising the Board’s action, NLC President Cynthia McCollum said, “A strong federal role in infrastructure financing and planning, as well as an effective intergovernmental partnership with local governments, is necessary if we are to meet our nation’s infrastructure needs and provide for quality and sustainable economic growth. This resolution recognizes the importance of the debate ahead and the important role for America’s cities and towns in the discussion.”
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