The proposal by the bipartisan leadership of the House

Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) Committee to seek $50 billion for highway and mass

transit investment in the fiscal year 2004 Budget Resolution is a bold move that shows real

political courage and leadership.

"Their proposal would start the process of meaningfully addressing the transportation concerns

of average Americans who want safer roads and less traffic congestion. Meeting those concerns

requires a highway and mass capital investment level significantly beyond the status quo.

"This is the first time congressional leaders have committed to pushing a plan that is grounded on

the highway and transit capital investment needs detailed in the U.S. Department of

Transportation’s biannual Conditions & Performance Report to Congress. This would represent a

policy paradigm shift that would cause an increase in the safety and performance of the nation’s

transportation system.

"National opinion surveys repeatedly show the American public recognizes the importance of

transportation infrastructure to the nation’s economy and their quality of life.

"When the debate is finished, we are confident that both Democrats and Republicans will come

together to provide the necessary investment to build a 21st century transportation network that

reduces traffic-related deaths and injuries, creates new jobs, fosters economic growth and

provides for the nation’s security."