ARTBA Statement Regarding Oberstar
National Bridge Repair Plan

ARTBA Says Oberstar Bridge Proposal Signals New
Strategic Approach to Federal Transportation Investment

Contacts:
Jeff Solsby 202-289-4434	202-289-4434	Print this page

Washington, D.C. [August 8, 2007]—The American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) today issued the following statement from President & CEO Pete Ruane regarding a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Jim Oberstar (D-Minn.) initiative to quickly address America’s bridge problem:

“Chairman Jim Oberstar today displayed the political leadership and ‘can do’ attitude that are key to beginning the hard task of seriously addressing America’s national transportation system deficiencies.

“The federal surface transportation investment program needs to change to meet the demands and challenges of this century, not the last one.  We believe the Oberstar bridge proposal signals a necessary first step toward legislatively refocusing and reinvigorating it. 

“The approach he has outlined is not Washington ‘business as usual.’  It is a strategic, targeted capital investment plan that has accountability and a defined national outcome—eliminating structurally deficient bridges on America’s most heavily traveled highways.  He is proposing a “surgical strike’ approach that could be a model for the future. 

“The American Road & Transportation Builders Association supports and applauds Chairman Oberstar’s initiative.”

Established in 1902, ARTBA represents the U.S. transportation construction industry before Congress, the Executive Branch, federal agencies, news media and general public.

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