Wednesday, September 12, 2001        
2:30 a.m. (EST)
Contact:  Chet Lunner           
Tel.:  (202) 366-4570
DOT 94-01     

Statement of Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta

The U.S. Department of Transportation is open for business Wednesday, Sept. 12, ready to perform any tasks necessary to restore our national transportation system to a safe, efficient status. The DOT is working closely with the White House and appropriate federal agencies to mount a coordinated, nationwide recovery effort.

Increased security measures will be in place, and all personnel entering DOT buildings will be required to display official DOT identification. In keeping with Office of Personnel Management guidance, unscheduled leave is authorized but essential employees are asked to report for duty.

  As Secretary Mineta said last night, each American must know that we will restore our national transportation system to a safe and efficient status as quickly as possible. Our system has been severely burdened by the stress of these horrendous attacks, but we will recover.

###

Briefing Room