Surface Transportation Recommendations for Congress

Commentary

Surface Transportation Recommendations for Congress

Here are nine programs or policies that need to be changed when Congress reauthorizes transportation legislation

Approximately every six years, Congress reauthorizes U.S. surface transportation legislation, providing an opportunity to make changes and updates that affect millions of Americans. Reason Foundation has identified eight programs or policies that need to be changed in the next reauthorization.

Double the $15 Billion Cap on Private Activity Bonds (PABs) for P3 Projects

Arbitrary cap should be increased to allow states to stretch resources further

By Robert Poole

Recognize All HOT/BRT Lanes as “Fixed Guideways” for Transit Funding

All HOT lanes should receive equal treatment from FTA

By Robert Poole

Grant user-friendly tolling flexibility for Interstate highway reconstruction

States need a new option for reconstructing Interstate highways

By Robert Poole

Simplify Long-range Planning Requirements for Regional Transportation Plans
Long-range transportation planning mandates include unnecessary tasks that stretch far beyond transportation
By David T. Hartgen

Simplify Conformity Regulations for Regional Transportation Plans
Current rules create huge administrative burden without improving environment
By David T. Hartgen

Eliminate Surface Transportation Funding for Non-federal Modes
Fund can no longer support diversions to transit, active transportation and weed removal
By Baruch Feigenbaum

Add Taxpayer Protections to FRA’s RRIF Loan Program
Federal Railroad Administration program ripe for abuse without needed protections
By Robert Poole

Require Metro Planning Agencies to Consider Congestion in Transportation Plans
Taxpayers should get to judge whether transportation plans focus enough on congestion reduction
By Robert Poole

Eliminate the TIGER Program
Executive branch earmarking has focused on politics not policy
By Baruch Feigenbaum