FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, December 17, 1999
Contact: Bill Adams
Tel.: (202) 366-5580
DOT 218-99
Statement from U.S. Secretary of
Transportation
Rodney E. Slater on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Ruling
Today’s unanimous decision is a win for the commuters of the Washington area, uncorking one of the worst choke points in one of the most heavily congested regions in the country.
The court decision confirms that the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, in approving the replacement for the aging Woodrow Wilson Bridge, have sought to meet the region’s transportation needs while at the same time complying with both the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act and preserving the unique character of the surrounding neighborhood. I applaud those in the Department of Transportation and the Department of Justice who worked so very hard to secure this important victory.
Our goal now is to begin to complete the project so that all bridge users -- commuters, truckers, business, vacationers and others -- can enjoy congestion relief and safety benefits as soon as possible. The ruling opens the way to begin construction one year from now, at the end of 2000.
President Clinton has proposed $600 million in advanced appropriations as the final element of the funding package. We look forward to continuing our work with Congress and the states to reach closure on project funding and the ownership agreement. Working together, we expect to complete construction on time and within budget.
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