The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) commends the National Surface Transportation Policy and Review Study Commission for its just-released report on our nation's infrastructure needs. AEM also urges Congress to carefully study the Commission's recommendations as deliberations begin for transportation funding reauthorization.
The Commission's report to Congress, "Transportation for Tomorrow," is intended to provide a comprehensive blueprint of how America's infrastructure needs can best be met for the future. The Commission was created by Congress under the SAFETEA-LU transportation legislation passed in 2005.
The Commission estimates that an annual investment of $225 billion minimum is needed over the next 50 years for adequate repair of America's highway, transit and passenger rail systems.
According to AEM 2008 Chairman Glen E. Tellock, AEM encourages Congress and the Administration to consider all options recommended by the Commission during reauthorization of the 'highway bill' in 2009.
