Welcome to the FastLane: The Official Blog of the U.S. Secretary of Transportation

FTA grant for Wayne Junction station will connect commuters, restore historic intermodal transit facility

With gas prices reaching above four dollars per gallon in some areas, President Obama is committed to providing transit opportunities that help people avoid pain at the pump.  And yesterday, Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff traveled to Philadelphia to award the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) $4 million to transform the dilapidated Wayne Junction transit station into a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient, accessible facility for area commuters.

While gas prices are reason enough to leave the car at home these days, Administrator Rogoff noted, "To attract new riders, transit also needs to be clean, safe, reliable, and desirable."

And when your local commuter rail station features a partially collapsed roof, peeling paint, crumbling stairs, and boarded-up windows, how likely are you to ride transit to work?  Unfortunately, that's what commuters using Philadelphia's Wayne Junction station have been facing every day.

Six ports honored with Pacesetter Awards

As I’ve blogged before, America’s marine transportation system is a crucial part of our transportation network.  One key part, the St. Lawrence Seaway, is an essential gateway that moves cargo between North American ports and international markets. 

Today, the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation gave six of the Seaway's valuable ports its Robert J. Lewis Pacesetter Award for the 2010 navigation season.  This annual award is presented to U.S. Great Lakes ports that register an increase for the year in international cargo tonnage shipped through the Seaway. 

Ship carrying wind turbine parts unloads at the Port of Cleveland

Along with our marine highways initiative, the St. Lawrence Seaway is an important part of President Obama’s plan to meet the challenge of rising gas prices.  Marine transportation remains the single most fuel-efficient and cost-effective way to haul goods from one place to another. 

It’s also a crucial part of President Obama's economic strategy for winning the future by doubling American exports within five years.

Port workers help unload the turbine blades

That’s why I was so pleased to learn that six ports earned the prestigious Pacesetter Award: Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority, Duluth Seaway Port Authority, Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority, Port of Indiana – Burns Harbor, Port of Oswego Authority, and Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority.

Every day is a good day to talk to your kids about alcohol; MADD's PowerTalk 21 Day makes that conversation easier

In our continuous efforts to make America's roadways safer for everyone, the Department of Transportation has had tremendous support from many safety partners.  But it would be difficult to find a grassroots organization that has been more consistently effective than Mothers Against Drunk Driving. 

Since its origins 30 years ago, MADD has become the gold standard for helping change unsafe driving practices nationwide.  Last week, MADD demonstrated their effectiveness once again with a bold new annual event, PowerTalk 21 Day, the national day for parents to start talking with their kids about alcohol.

And thanks to MADD and Senators Amy Klobuchar and David Vitter, the U.S. Senate unanimously approved a resolution declaring every April 21 as PowerTalk 21 Day.  While MADD and DOT believe that every day is a good day for starting that discussion, knowing that it's part of a national conversation may help parents introduce the sometimes difficult subject of underage drinking.

“Research has shown that parents are the number one influence in their child’s decisions about drinking, so MADD is eager to get the conversation about alcohol started in households across the country — particularly in advance of prom and graduation season,” said MADD National President Laura Dean-Mooney, whose husband was killed by a drunk driver.

MADD understands that talking to teens about something as sensitive as underage drinking and alcohol abuse is a challenge.  That's why they've created a great new handbook, "Power of Parents; It's Your Influence."  You can get your copy here.

Walk friendly communities offer residents a gas-saving, healthy alternative

In this time of high gas prices, it’s important that we give Americans options for getting where they need to go. One way to do that is by fostering livable communities where people can choose to leave their cars behind and safely walk where they need to go.

To encourage communities to make walking safer, the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (PBIC) introduced its Walk Friendly Communities program.  And yesterday, with support from the Federal Highway Administration and FedEx, the PBIC recognized the first 11 cities to earn that designation for improving walkability and pedestrian safety.

Charlotte, NC

The Obama Administration believes it’s important to recognize cities for creating an environment that helps cut down on fuel costs for working families.  Supporting community efforts to offer residents the transportation options they seek is a terrific way to ensure these efforts continue.

Obama Administration pledges transit dollars for Minneapolis-St. Paul Central Corridor light rail

In the past 13 months, our recovering economy has created 1.8 million private sector jobs.  But many Americans are still struggling to pay the bills, and rising gas prices are not helping.  That's why the Obama Administration is making strategic investments to help Americans get where they need to go without mortgaging their families' future at the gas pump.

The Minneapolis-St. Paul Central Corridor light rail will do exactly that.  And yesterday Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff signed a grant agreement for $474 million to help fund this line, the state's largest-ever public works project. 

The 11-mile Central Corridor will link the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, connecting the State Capitol with the University of Minnesota and the downtown Minneapolis business district along one of the region's most heavily traveled routes.  It will offer Twin Cities commuters a convenient, affordable option for getting to work without pumping money into their gas tanks or tailpipe emissions into the air.

 
FTA Administrator Rogoff with Gov. Mark Dayton, US Senator Al Franken, and Twin Cities mayors Rybak and Coleman

What I really admire about the Twin Cities community is that they didn't wait for this agreement before getting started.  Backed by area businesses, the Metropolitan Council has already awarded contracts and completed more than an eighth of the project's construction.

More than 500 jobs have already been created, with more than 3,400 total jobs expected.  And the economic development ripple effects will be felt in the many communities around the line's 18 stations.  More jobs, less greenhouse gases, and reduced dependence on foreign oil--that's the kind of trifecta of benefits President Obama is investing in. 

As Administrator Rogoff said, "Every time Minnesotans take light rail instead of driving, they will be keeping gas money in their own pockets.  This project truly embodies the President's vision for winning the future through infrastructure investment."

Distracted Driving Awareness Month winds down with signing of 31st state texting ban in North Dakota

There's terrific news today out of North Dakota, where Governor Jack Dalrymple has just signed a law banning texting behind the wheel.  Thanks to Governor Dalrymple and leaders in the state legislature, North Dakota today joins 30 other states, Guam and the District of Columbia in taking this important step toward safer driving.  North Dakota roads will be safer for everyone as a result, and I can't think of a more fitting outcome for Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Throughout April, schools, communities, states, and grassroots safety advocates across the country have really outdone themselves educating Americans about the dangers of texting or talking on a cell phone while driving. From stepped-up state enforcement in California, Connecticut and New York, to school events in Rockville, Maryland, people have shared the safety message that no text or call is worth risking your life and the lives of others.

Tune to http://abcnews.go.com/2020 to watch parts 2 and 3

Last Friday, for example, the folks at ABC's 20/20 news magazine brought this important safety message into the homes of millions of Americans.  If you missed it, I hope you'll watch it above or tune in online to learn more about distracted driving, hear the heartbreaking stories of victims who have lost loved ones, and commit to helping us stop this epidemic of dangerous behavior behind the wheel.

As I've said before, the Department of Transportation cannot fight this fight alone.  We need partners to help us educate others.  We need parents and teens to be role models and put away their devices while driving.  And we need elected officials to be safety leaders.

So-whether you're a state governor, a news producer, a student, or a highway patrol officer--if you did something during Distracted Driving Awareness Month to improve safety on America's roadways or spread the word about this deadly epidemic, I'm grateful for your effort.

Pilot parking project in San Francisco encourages users to, "Circle less, live more."

We’ve all had those days where parking is just impossible.  We circle endlessly, idling our engines, clogging traffic lanes, and watching the gas gauge slip down while we wait for a spot to open up.  The clock ticks; greenhouse gases and frustrations rise.

With gas prices hovering around four dollars a gallon, none of us can afford to waste fuel like that.

That’s one reason I’m excited about SFpark, a new service funded by our Federal Highway Administration that provides real-time information on parking availability and pricing in San Francisco--before you leave home.  

SFpark Overview from SFpark.

With SFpark, you'll know the parking conditions while you can still make travel decisions.  Parking spaces where you're heading looking full?  Maybe today's the day to take transit, or even ride your bike.  Whatever you decide, armed with better information, you can make better choices.

FHWA Deputy Administrator Greg Nadeau helps launch SFpark

SFpark was built by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency using a $19.4 million grant from the FHWA.  And FHWA Deputy Administrator Greg Nadeau was on hand for the unveiling of the pilot project last week.

“This innovative system will save drivers time, fuel and frustration,” Nadeau said. “It’s also good for the economy because it will make it easier to shop and do business within the city.”

Obama Administration efforts seek to boost jobs, small businesses

At the Department of Transportation, we have been proud to support our economic recovery through thousands of road, bridge, airport, rail, transit, and port projects.  We're also doing our part to help boost jobs by expanding opportunities for small businesses.

Last week, DOT's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Businesses (OSDBU) held a summit to bring small businesses and government together. Why? Because small businesses are the driving force of our economy, employing millions of Americans nationwide, and we want to make sure they have all have access to the tools needed to sustain that force.

President Obama knows that small businesses are the backbone of our nation's success.  Small businesses have generated two out of every three American jobs during the past decade, and they employ half of all American private sector workers. When the President talks about out-innovating and out-building our competitors, that starts with America's small businesses.

And right now, small businesses in the transportation industry are employing people to rebuild America's aging roads and bridges, manufacture streetcars and electric transit buses, lay track for high-speed rail, and develop alternative fuels and charging stations.  They are building the projects we need now and laying the foundation for our future.

So when small and disadvantaged businesses are unable to compete, America loses.  That's where our efforts come in.

Second National Port Summit keeps maritime freight conversation moving forward

A key part of President Obama's economic strategy for winning the future is his initiative to double American exports within five years. That means we need to expand shipping capacity in order to support larger demand for American goods abroad.

Last week, I had the opportunity to talk about this at the Second Annual National Port Summit. In addition to speaking about the President's economic vision and the DOT’s many marine initiatives, I was able to to hear ideas from folks in the marine industry.

To build a world-class economy, the United States must be able to move people and products safely and efficiently. We must invest in world-class roadways, railways, runways--and waterways.



And that's exactly what we're doing. Through TIGER grants and other programs, we've focused on awarding funds to projects that will seamlessly connect shippers with ports and easy access to freight rail and highways.

Fully half of our TIGER funds went to freight projects, including $215 million for marine highway and port projects. This is the first time that our nation's ports have ever received federal funds.

A major priority for DOT is our marine highways initiative, an important part of President Obama’s plan to meet the challenge of rising gas prices. Marine highways remain the single most fuel-efficient and cost-effective way to haul goods from one place to another.

On Earth Day 2011, much to appreciate and much work ahead

With gas prices climbing above four dollars per gallon, Earth Day 2011 arrives today at a moment when families across the country are thinking about their energy use.  As President Obama said, “In an economy that relies so heavily on oil, rising prices at the pump affect everybody.” 

That's why President Obama recently announced a comprehensive plan to cut our oil imports by a third by 2025.  And that's why the Department of Transportation is working so hard to change both the types and the amounts of energy our transportation systems use while also creating good, high-paying jobs and easing everyone’s burden at the pump. 

DOT’s efforts to make the US transportation system and our own operations greener extend to every part of the Department. 

This American-made electric truck will help conserve oil, reduce emissions, save companies money

We're helping develop alternative fuel efforts--biodiesel, electric, hydrogen, and more--not just for cars, but also for trucks, airplanes, transit, and ships.

We've put into place historic fuel efficiency standards for cars and trucks that will help cut emissions and help save everyone money at the gas station.

Using recycled content rail ties on FasTracks West Corridor transit project in Colorado

Our livable communities initiative is adding transportation options, so Americans who choose to drive less can find more affordable, environmentally friendly ways of getting where they need to go--whether by walking, biking, riding the bus, taking light rail, or hopping on an American-made streetcar.

"On the Go" continues with another set of terrific questions from you

Last month, I started a new "On the Go" video blog feature so I can respond directly to some of the questions I get on Facebook, Twitter, and here on Fastlane. The response has been enthusiastic, and today I'm keeping it going with another installment.

The main reason it's been a success so far is because your questions have been great. It's terrific to have readers who are well-informed and ready to get down into the nitty-gritty of transportation issues.

"On the Go" gives me an important opportunity to communicate directly to people who are really engaged in transportation and government.

 

So, we'll keep the lines open and hope you'll keep the questions coming. I've already posted a new topic on my Facebook "Discussions" tab for our May "On the Go."   And, remember, you can also post your questions on Twitter using the #q4ray hashtag, or through the "Comments" feature right here on this blog.

Thanks for watching, and see you next month!

Seeking relief from pain at the pump? Electric vehicles are ready to roll

With gas prices rising above four dollars per gallon, families and businesses are feeling the effects.  And once again elected officials are clamoring for action to instantly reverse that trend.  But we know that you can't bring down energy prices overnight.

Fortunately, since 2009, the Department of Transportation has been investing in transportation options that free Americans from the high cost of refilling their gas-powered cars.

Whether it's high-speed rail, transit, or walkable, bikeable streets, we are working to foster alternatives so people can choose to quit feeding their local gas pumps and continue feeding their families, their college savings accounts, and their retirement funds.

"Innovation Motorcade" charges through Washington

One approach that is already reducing fuel costs for drivers and creating jobs is the Obama Administration's support for electric and hybrid vehicles.  Earlier today, I was happy to share that news at the Electric Drive Transportation Association’s 2011 Conference.  And, for those who didn’t realize the maturity of this industry, today’s “Innovation Motorcade” of electric vehicles parading through Washington, DC, was a real eye-opener.

A few years ago, US businesses made just 2 percent of batteries for emerging cars like the Chevy Volt and the electric Ford Focus. But a few years from now, America will be home to 40 percent of the world's automotive battery manufacturing capacity.  That means jobs.  In fact, workers are on the job right now, pioneering advanced batteries at Compact Power in Michigan.

It also means the status quo on America's roadways is beginning to give way to a future--long overdue--in which electric and hybrid vehicles are the norm, not the exception.

Am I sad that my Buick Regal is about to become a classic?  Not at all.  I'm excited that we're finally on the verge of a 21st century transportation system that suits the energy and environmental realities we face.

DOT adds protections for air travelers

As I’ve mentioned many times before on this blog, airline passengers have rights, and airlines have an obligation to respect those rights.

That’s why today I am pleased to announce new airline passenger protections that will ensure air travelers are treated with the respect they deserve.

Today's protections build on the historic rule we issued in December 2009 prohibiting tarmac delays of more than three hours for U.S. airlines operating domestic flights.  And we know these consumer protections work.  Since the first airline consumer protection rule went into effect, lengthy tarmac delays have dropped to almost zero--without causing a significant increase in flight cancellations.  That has boosted passengers' confidence that they won't be stranded for hours at a time.

Our new protections require airlines to reimburse passengers for bag fees if their bags are lost, provide consumers involuntarily bumped from flights with greater compensation, and disclose hidden fees.  And, because passengers on international flights deserve the same protections and fair treatment as those on domestic flights, we're also expanding the current ban on lengthy tarmac delays.

DOT community, nation mark sad anniversary

Today marks the 16th anniversary of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City.  We at the Department of Transportation join with all Americans in remembering the 168 people--including 19 children--who lost their lives in that despicable act of terrorism.

 
Each of the 168 empty chairs honors one of the April 19 victims

Eleven of the public servants killed that day were part of the DOT family.  They were at their desks in the Murrah Building, doing what all of us at DOT do every day: working hard to make American transportation safer and better.  Their memory continues to inspire us.

Lucio Aleman, Jr., Mark A. Bolte, Ronota A. Woodbridge, Larry J. Jones, James K. Martin, Jerry L. Parker, Michelle A. Reeder, and Johnny A. Wade worked for the Federal Highway Administration.

Michael J. Carrillo, Rick L. Tomlin, and John "Buddy" Youngblood also worked for the FHWA, but in the office that eventually became today's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

All 11 are memorialized in a grove of rebud trees planted in their honor at the FHWA Turner-Fairbank Research Center in Virginia.  

I am thankful to everyone who honors these individuals by remembering this sad anniversary. And I urge everyone to continue remembering their sacrifice.

I particularly want to thank today's federal employees.  Ever since that tragic day in 1995, going to your government job each day is an act of courage in the service of your nation.  And I, for one, appreciate that service.

Vehicle odometer fraud jeopardizes safety...and pocketbooks

When we think about car safety, we usually consider the obvious features – seatbelts, air bags, brakes, rear-view visibility.  But some less obvious equipment, like a vehicle's odometer, can be just as important.

Making sure your new cars are safe is certainly a big part of our safety mission at the Department of Transportation.  But within the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Odometer Fraud Investigations, DOT professionals are working hard to protect the safety--and wallets--of used car buyers.

Automakers often recommend part replacements based on a car's mileage.  So a vehicle's odometer is one of the easiest ways to judge expected wear and tear on parts that can affect your safety like ball joints, suspension and timing belts. 

If an unscrupulous seller rolls back the odometer, you could end up driving a car that is considerably less valuable and less safe than you thought.  Some sellers even roll back the odometers on recent models, so buyers think they're getting a brand new vehicle--you can imagine the extra cost consumers pay for that fraud.  The most dangerous odometer rollbacks occur on vehicles that have been in serious crashes and should no longer be on the road at all.

The Office of Odometer Fraud Investigations has been working hard to track down crime rings that repeatedly buy high-mileage vehicles, tamper with their odometers, and resell them as lower-mileage cars to unwitting drivers.  Fortunately, the office has tools to help investigators see patterns and trends and to sort through piles of records.

Pipeline safety forum seeks to assure Americans of the safety they deserve

Here at the Department of Transportation, safety is our number one priority – whether it involves planes, trains, buses, trucks, cars, or pipelines.  Improving safety is the first thing I think about in the morning.  It’s the thing that keeps me awake at night.

That’s why I’m so concerned about the rising number of deaths in pipeline explosions across America – which have multiplied from nine in 2008, to 13 in 2009, to 22 in 2010, even as the overall numbers of pipeline accidents have declined.  And that’s why, today, the DOT hosted more than 200 people, representing a wide range of pipeline stakeholders, for a National Pipeline Safety Forum.

For our part, the Obama Administration has already stepped up our pipeline safety efforts:

• President Obama has proposed a 15 percent increase in federal pipeline safety funding, which will allow us to hire more dedicated safety professionals.
• This August, we will put into place a new rule requiring all operators of gas distribution pipelines to evaluate their risks and take immediate steps to mitigate those risks.
• And I've called on Congress to raise the maximum civil penalties for pipeline safety violations and boost the number of safety experts available to perform pipeline inspections.

But everyone at today's safety forum knows that we can't fix America's pipelines from Washington. 

We need the pipeline community to step up their efforts.  We need them to begin discussing safety risks – and how best to identify and address these risks without delay.

Faces of Distracted Driving: Linda Doyle, 61 "No family should ever have to lose a loved one to something as insignificant as a text message or a phone call."

Linda Doyle was one of those people who devoted herself to helping others.  Her generous spirit even extended to rescuing feral cats in her Oklahoma City neighborhood.

On September 3, 2008, Linda was on her way to pick up food for the cats she took care of every day.  Proceeding through an intersection where she had a green light, her car was struck by a pickup truck driven by a young man who was talking on his cell phone.  Linda was killed instantly.

At the crash scene, there were no skid marks, no evidence that the young man had even attempted to brake.  Why not?  Because, although he was looking straight ahead, he never saw the red light.  And he never saw Linda Doyle.

Today, Linda's daughter, Jennifer Smith, shares her mother's story in our latest "Faces of Distracted Driving" video.

  

DOT reminds you that pipeline safety is everyone's business

Today marks the halfway point of 2011's National Safe Digging Month, and I want to remind everyone to "Call 811 before you dig."  

Safety is always a top priority for the Department of Transportation, and we will continue doing everything possible to prevent damage, injuries, and loss of life from pipeline failures.  Earlier this month, for example, we launched a national pipeline safety initiative to repair and replace aging pipeline infrastructure.

At the work site in Arlington

Our efforts to improve pipeline safety aren’t stopping there.  Yesterday, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Administrator Cynthia Quarterman and I announced $2 million in grants for 24 states to improve pipeline safety. Thanks to these State Damage Prevention grants, established by the Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement, and Safety (PIPES) Act of 2006, states from Virginia to Indiana to New Mexico are receiving money to help promote safe digging and prevent dangerous pipeline accidents. 

PHMSA Administrator Quarterman and I also joined Associated General Contractors CEO Stephen Sandherr, Common Ground Alliance President Bob Kipp and local fire and safety officials yesterday for a first hand look at proper safe digging procedures.

A terrific demonstration of safe site preparation

Joe Hammerstrom of Skanska construction led us on a tour of a new construction site in Arlington, VA, where he's managing the construction of a new office building. He emphasized the importance of calling 811 and identifying underground pipelines before beginning excavation. That simple step can save thousands of dollars in property damage and help prevent injuries and deaths.

That's why Joe had already made the call to the 811, the national free hotline that sends out professional locators to mark where underground pipelines and utilities are located when you plan to dig.  The site was marked with spray paint, so Joe and everyone on his construction site could know exactly where the underground pipelines are.  That means they'll be able to work safely, minimizing the chances of striking a pipeline and causing an accident.

University Transportation Centers: solving today's problems, developing tomorrow's transportation professionals

Through its University Transportation Centers, our Research and Innovative Technology Administration is working hard to improve the future of transportation.  At these centers, expert faculty, graduate students, and even undergrads work side-by-side doing the research that helps keep the state-of-the-art in transportation moving forward.

Earlier today, for example, I blogged about an exciting traffic forecasting technology being developed by IBM, the California Department of Transportation, and the University of California, Berkeley.  And UC Berkeley is one of our University Transportation Centers.

Lightweight fiber-reinforced polymer bridge decks allow faster bridge repair

Last week, research teams from UTC's across the country gathered at DOT headquarters to share work that is--or will soon be--changing transportation.  And, if the projects displayed at University Research Technology Transfer Day are any indication, the future of transportation is safer, faster, smarter and greener than today.

One team from Kansas State University demonstrated bridge replacement panels made of Fiber Reinforced Polymer honeycombs that are 25 percent lighter than current concrete bridge decks.  This means the repaired bridge can actually handle more vehicle weight on the original bridge structure, which gives freight carriers more options to get where they're going.  The panels are also faster to install, so travelers face fewer detours and lane closings.  And they save the state departments of transportation money that can be stretched into making more bridges safer.

Partnership can predict traffic and let you know before you drive

Today, I'm reading about some exciting news for commuters.  A team from IBM Research, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and the University of California, Berkeley, are developing the Smarter Traveler solution to help commuters avoid congestion and enable transportation agencies to better manage traffic.

Imagine you're about to drive to work.  You're a smart commuter, so you check the traffic report before you leave home.  Your route looks clear.  Twenty minutes later, you're stuck in traffic, anxious, frustrated, and wasting expensive gas.  Every ten minutes, a voice on your radio reminds you that the road you're on is jammed.  Because you're between exits, there is little you can do but remain stuck.

Smarter Traveler initiative aims to keep you out of this

Now imagine that, before you leave home, you get a text message or an email advising you that a section of the route you typically take is likely to be congested.  It's not congested now, but 20 minutes from now--when you get to that spot--it will be.  The message suggests an alternate route that is unlikely to be congested.  You change your plans and enjoy a stress-free commute.

Commuters in the San Francisco Bay Area are testing that predictive technology right now, thanks to the new Smarter Traveler initiative.  Because participants receive the message before they get behind the wheel, it's safe.  And, because the routes they drive are less congested, they're enjoying more time with their families and spending less at the gas pump.

Motor coach safety enforcement actions produce results

Ensuring the safety of our nation’s highways is a top priority for the Department of Transportation.  Whether driving their cars or riding in motor coaches, America’s travelers deserve to be safe.

That’s why the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and its state and local law enforcement partners recently conducted nine days of surprise motor coach safety inspections across the nation.

And I'm pleased to report that enforcement action resulted in 2,782 inspections and the removal of 289 unsafe buses or drivers from our roadways.  Inspectors issued out-of-service citations to 156 drivers and 262 vehicles.  In addition to vehicle inspections, FMCSA and state safety investigators initiated full safety compliance reviews on 95 commercial bus companies.

But this safety strikeforce was just part of FMCSA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen passenger carrier safety nationwide. 

America needs a six-year transportation blueprint

For two years and counting, Transportation for America has been among the Department of Transportation’s closest partners and allies.  They’ve helped us spread our message – reminding people that transportation projects are about creating jobs today and investing in tomorrow.  And they’ve helped inform our policymaking – from our high-speed rail initiative, to our TIGER program, to our work building livable communities.

This afternoon, I’m meeting with Transportation for America to talk about President Obama’s vision for the future of our roadways, railways, runways, and transit systems.  I’m going to remind them – as I often remind readers of the Fast Lane – that at the same time as we’re cutting government spending, we’re also laying a new foundation for economic opportunity, development, and competitiveness.  And that’s why we’re working with Republicans and Democrats in Congress on a new, long-term transportation law.

As I’ve said before, this is one transportation project that America cannot do without.

By 2050, the United States will be home to 100 million additional people.  That's the equivalent of another California, Texas, New York, and Florida combined. If we settle for the status quo, our families and neighbors will fight paralyzing congestion and our next generation of entrepreneurs will find access to markets completely clogged. 

More people also means more demand for gas.  And that will keep upward pressure on the prices that Americans pay at the pump.  Already, families across the country are feeling the pinch of $4-a-gallon gas, and they are looking for ways to escape that difficult bind.  They want ways to get to work and school without breaking the bank.

New study and public service ad contest boost DOT safety efforts during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

The Department of Transportation continues to alert America's drivers to the dangers of texting and talking on a cell phone behind the wheel.  Whether it's through our Faces of Distracted Driving series, pamphlets educating parents, or presentations in high schools, we are on a rampage against distracted driving.

Thankfully, we are not in this fight alone.

The American Advertising Federation and Security Point Media recently announced a PSA contest that ends on April 29.  This is their second annual "Champion a Cause" challenge, and they've invited the nation’s top advertising, marketing and media experts to target adults who text and drive with an advertisement for television monitors near airport security lines:

"As this deadly epidemic begins to gain attention, almost all of the messaging is targeted to teens.  Show us how you would capture the attention of the compulsive-natured business traveler - a demographic that’s notoriously hard to reach and bound to find this message hard to hear."

If you're a media or marketing professional, I hope you'll consider participating in their safety campaign.

And, as you may already know, motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of America's teens.  That's why we're continuing our push to educate teens about the dangers of distracted driving.

Good data is a critical part of that effort, and yesterday the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and State Farm announced the results of an important new study of teen drivers.  This study seeks to identify the most common errors teen drivers make leading to a serious crash.

United Streetcar putting Americans to work, putting America in position to win the future

When you watch our latest video, "Transporting America: United Streetcar," you'll see the next generation of transportation. You'll see transit investments from the Department of Transportation helping people get where they need to go without breaking the bank.  And you'll see a company out-innovating and out-building its foreign competition while creating jobs for American workers.

 

The streetcars rolling through Portland, Oregon, are helping commuters beat the rising cost of refueling their cars and vans and trucks.  And, as rising gas prices take a bigger bite out of family budgets, other communities are looking to ease that bite through similar transportation options. 

As commuter Jim Winkle says in the video, "It's made a huge difference."

That's why the Department of Transportation has supported streetcar projects in communities like Portland across America.  From Charlotte, North Carolina, and Washington, DC, to Tucson, Arizona, and Dallas, Texas, grants from the Federal Transit Administration are helping jump-start the American streetcar renaissance.

 

United Streetcar president Chandra Brown agrees:  "The Department of Transportation has been a true partner as the streetcar industry has developed.  Without their assistance, we could not have made the private investment to make this new industry successful."

That's good news for commuters and their families.  It's also good news for American workers because, at United Streetcar, they're manufacturing the first American streetcars in more than 50 years. 

From Alabama to Alaska, DOT delivers emergency relief to states

When a natural disaster strikes, the cost of repairing roads and bridges can be a tremendous burden to states.  But restoring vital transportation links is important so commerce can resume and residents can get back to work and school.

That's why the Department of Transportation helps support states whose roads and bridges have suffered damage from storms, flooding, rock slides, and other events.

And today, we're providing more than $319 million to states across the country to cover the costs of getting roadways back in shape after a variety of disasters.  From Puerto Rico west to American Samoa and 28 states in between, DOT is helping pay for road resurfacing, bridge replacement, guardrails, traffic signs, lighting, and debris removal.

Highway flooding in North Dakota

Knowing they can be repaid by the Federal Highway Administration's Emergency Relief program motivates states to make emergency repairs more quickly without the hesitation of worrying about funding.

As Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez said, "We want states to know we will reimburse them for work that is necessary to get roads and bridges back in service again after an emergency."

As gas prices rise, DOT is on your side

Gas prices have jumped above four dollars a gallon for regular in some parts of the country, and everyone is feeling the pinch.  Driven by the pain of a $40 or $50 fill-up at the pump, many Americans are finding ways to save, and the Department of Transportation is working hard to make sure you have even more options.

One sure sign of a rise in gas prices is increased transit ridership, and the North County Transit District in North San Diego County, CA, has just reported such a spike.  NCTD's Breeze bus system recorded 157,336 boardings from March 27 through April 2, a 14 percent rise over the 137,694 boardings during the same week in 2010.  In March, ridership on their Coaster commuter train was also nearly 14 percent above the March 2010 number. 

North County's Coaster takes commuters alongside the Pacific Ocean

Demand has risen so high on the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System's express route, the MTS has added extra trips to boost existing service.  Both transit agencies have benefited from Federal Transit Administration grants in recent years to help expand service and maintain a state of good repair.

In Alaska's Mat-Su Valley, daily commutes to Anchorage can cost drivers upward of $400 a month in gas alone.  In families with two commuters driving separately, we're talking about $800 a month.  So Palmer and Wasilla commuters are rediscovering the buses and vanpools offered by area transit programs like Valley Mover, Share-A-Ride and Mat-Su Community Transit.  Wasilla resident Michael Gilbert uses the Share-A-Ride vanpool and saves more than $400 a month.

That savings is one reason the Obama Administration has committed hundreds of millions of dollars to support dozens of projects in communities like Wasilla and Palmer around the country.   For example,in Utah we're using our New Starts program to support the Weber County to Salt Lake City Commuter Rail project. For drivers who travel the length of this 44-mile corridor each way in their daily commmutes, the fuel bill alone can easily top $500 each month, and transit offers families a way to put some of that money back into their wallets.

America's marine highway system: delivering goods more efficiently, reducing dependence on foreign oil

To win the future, America must invest in the multi-modal transportation system that makes our livelihoods possible.  Whether its roadways, railways, or runways, how effectively we move goods and people determines how effectively our economy thrives.

And when oil prices rise dramatically and greenhouse gases threaten our environment, the link between transportation and economic strength only grows tighter.

On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to speak about an increasingly crucial part of our transportation network--America's marine highways--at the North American Marine Highways and Logistics Conference.

America's marine highways will shift some of our nation's cargo traffic--particularly in areas where there are known bottlenecks--from roadways to waterways.  Since we announced our initiative a year ago, DOT's Maritime Administration (MARAD) has designated 18 marine highway corridors and awarded $215 million in TIGER grants to marine highway and port projects. 

These are essential arteries of commerce that will bypass congested roads around busy ports, reduce greenhouse gases, and create jobs for our skilled mariners and shipbuilders across the country.  

In addition to transporting goods more quickly, easily, and efficiently, our marine highway system will also save a valuable resource: fuel.

DOT gets new allies in fight against distracted driving

I'm pleased to report the DOT has two new allies in its fight to end distracted driving.

Yesterday, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Orthopaedic Trauma Association teamed up with boxing legend Smokin' Joe Frazier to launch "Decide to Drive." This national initiative includes a multimedia campaign, interactive website (www.decidetodrive.org), a school curriculum, and materials to help surgeons talk to their patients about the risks of distracted driving.

Orthopaedists are the doctors who have to put victims' bones and limbs back together after a crash, and very few people are more familiar with the tragedy distracted driving causes than these surgeons. 

AAOS released results of a survey indicating that 94 percent of adult drivers in America believe distracted driving is a problem in the U.S.  Yet, 20 percent of those drivers thought their own driving skills were good enough to text or talk on the phone safely, despite the evidence against such claims.  And none of the 1,500 respondents--not one--reported their own driving as unsafe.

That is a large--and dangerous--disconnect that calls for greater public awareness campaigns like "Decide To Drive."

Faces of Distracted Driving: Hear the stories, get the message

Since the launch of our "Faces of Distracted Driving" series in November, the response has been overwhelming.  In less than five months, these videos have been viewed over 100,000 times in communities all across the country.

They're being shown in driver education classrooms.  The Army is using them as training aids.  And we've heard from people of all ages--including those who aren't even old enough to drive--who are pledging to keep their eyes on the road, their hands on the wheel, and their phones in the glove box.

To take our campaign to the next level during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, I'm proud to announce the release of a new public service announcement that will continue spreading the word about the tragic costs of texting and cell phone use while driving.

This 30-second PSA, “Get the Message,” features people from across the country who lost loved ones in distracted driving crashes and have spoken out through our “Faces of Distracted Driving” campaign. The video is also available for download now on our Distraction.gov website.

National Driver Register celebrates 50 years with 21st century upgrade

I’ve talked a lot on this blog about the importance of safe driving. And at the Department of Transportation we are doing everything we can to protect people from drunk, distracted, and reckless drivers on our nation’s roadways.

To help keep dangerous drivers off the roads, the National Driver Register (NDR) was created in 1960 to help states communicate which drivers have had their licenses suspended or revoked or have been convicted of serious traffic violations such as driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.  As the original Register Users Guide said:

“THE PUBLIC MUST BE PROTECTED from drunken and other irresponsible drivers.  This protection cannot be effective inless each State has ready access to the records of these drivers in all other States.  With this information, the drivers license administrator in one State can avoid licensing a driver whose license in another State has been denied, suspended, or revoked for serious cause.”

State motor vehicle agencies provide NDR with the names of individuals who have lost their privileges or who have been convicted of a serious traffic violation. States can then search the database to make sure someone with a dangerous driving record in one state doesn’t start with a clean slate by simply jumping across state lines.

Depending on individual state regulations and the severity of the driver's violations, that driver may be denied a new license.

Benefits of high-speed rail draw a crowd

Since the Department of Transportation announced the availability of an additional $2.4 billion for high-speed rail projects last month, governors and members of Congress from both major parties have been clamoring for the opportunity to participate.

As of our Monday deadline, we received more than 90 applications from 24 states, the District of Columbia, and Amtrak.  The preliminary total of those requests is nearly $10 billion, more than four times what we have available. 

Why is demand for high-speed rail support so high? 

Because elected officials have seen the immediate benefits of jobs where rail work has already begun.  They've seen these jobs in Maine--where the Downeaster extension to Brunswick is under construction--and they've seen them in Illinois--where 96 miles of track are now being laid for the Chicago-St. Louis high-speed corridor. 

Demand is high because these leaders--Democrats and Republicans--have also seen the expanded manufacturing activity in Indiana, where the workers of Steel Dynamics are forging track.  They know that 30 other manufacturers and suppliers have agreed to build or expand operations in the U.S. should they participate in high-speed rail projects.  They know that our Buy America requirements ensure they'll be using American-made supplies and materials, so U.S. companies, workers, and communities will receive the maximum economic benefit of our high-speed rail investment.

Texas launches "Talk. Text. Crash." campaign to encourage safer driving

As I mentioned earlier this week, April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.  And last Wednesday the Texas Department of Transportation kicked off their April efforts with a rally on the steps of the state Capitol and a terrific new safe driving campaign called "Talk. Text. Crash."

Motorcycle
Click here to listen to one of Texas DOT's new radio public service ads

As Texas DOT Traffic Safety Coordinator Karen Peoples said, "We're trying to get the great people of our state to limit their distractions.  Whenever you're behind the wheel, make arriving safely at your destination your number one priority."

The rally featured several family members speaking on behalf of  12 loved ones who have been killed in distracted driving crashes.  One of the victims remembered last week was Alex Brown, whose tragic story is featured in our "Faces of Distracted Driving" series.

Another of the speakers, Jennifer Smith, is the founder of FocusDriven, a national advocacy group working to end distracted driving.  The story of Jennifer's mother, Linda Doyle, will also be featured in an upcoming "Faces of Distracted Driving" video.

The bold public education campaign to encourage Texans to put down their cell phones while driving is built around a simple message: "You talk, you text; you crash."

As Work Zone Awareness Week Begins, road safety is more important than ever

First you see the warning signs, "Road Work Ahead."  Then the orange cones.  And then the orange vests of the crews who are grading, paving, and installing safety features on your road.  These men and women are working hard maintaining, repairing, and upgrading America's highways in all kinds of weather; they deserve our respect and courtesy.

And the best way to show them our respect is to drive safely when traveling through their work zones.

Yesterday, Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez kicked off the 12th annual National Work Zone Awareness Week, which runs through this Friday.  As spring rolls in and the highway construction season ramps up, this special week is observed across the country by state, local and federal transportation officials.  I thank them for their efforts, and I hope everyone gets their important message. 

Last Friday, I announced that in 2010 the number of traffic fatalities in America fell to their lowest levels since 1949.  But we still have more than 30,000 people dying on our nation’s roads each year.  We will keep working to push that number down, and that includes the number of deaths in our work zones.

Pipeline Safety Action Plan a first step to prevent future tragedies

When we turn on our heat, stoves, or hot water, none of us expects an explosion in our front yard that might endanger our families and neighbors.

But recent deadly pipeline blasts in San Bruno, California, and Allentown, Pennsylvania, and the damaging rupture in Marshall, Michigan, have many of us concerned about our aging pipelines.

Earlier today, I saw the damage from Allentown's February pipeline blast up close.  I also met with some of the families and neighbors of the five people killed in that blast.  I was struck by the ravaged neighborhood, and I am so sorry for the terrible loss these families have suffered.

To help prevent future tragedies like Allentown's, we are calling on America’s pipeline owners and operators to conduct a top-to-bottom review of their lines.

Rockville, MD, high school students get the message: texting or talking on cell phone, drinking, and driving are a deadly combination

Thanks to an invitation from the enterprising students at Rockville High School in Maryland, I visited their school last Friday to talk about the dangers of distracted driving. That April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month made the visit all the more fitting.

For these students, Friday was also the last day of their Every 15 Minutes program.  This is a compelling exercise where every 15 minutes students experience the loss of one of their classmates to a drunk driving crash.  When this intense simulation program was founded, the name was meant to reflect a statistic that one person was killed in an alcohol-related vehicle crash in the United States every 15 minutes.

Since then, Every 15 Minutes has added texting and driving to the mix of deadly behaviors in their dramatic simulations.

Better access to transportation services for people with disabilities a key part of DOT proposals

At the Department of Transportation, we believe that America’s planes, trains, buses, and sidewalks are more than ways of getting from one place to another.  They’re the avenues by which people connect with opportunities to achieve their dreams. 

That’s why we’re laser-focused on improving everyone’s access to transportation systems.  And this morning, DOT leaders met with representatives from across the disability and transportation communities to discuss President Obama’s 2012 budget, answer questions, and get feedback on where we’re headed.

“For the 2012 proposal and our upcoming reauthorization, we really wanted to think about how we can help make all modes of transportation accessible,” said Polly Trottenberg, Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy.

Record low traffic deaths encourage continued road safety efforts

Today, I am very pleased to announce that in 2010 the number of traffic fatalities in America fell to the lowest levels since 1949.  

This drop comes despite a sharp increase in the number of miles Americans drove last year - 21 billion additional miles. In addition, the rate of road fatalities in the U.S. has also dropped to its lowest level since 1949. Over the last five years, traffic deaths have declined by 25 percent.

This is thanks to the combined efforts of DOT, states, law enforcement, safety organizations, and America's drivers who are taking personal responsibility for their driving habits. Overall, in 2010, the number of deaths fell three percent to 32,788.  And the rate of fatalities per million miles traveled fell to 1.09 from 1.13 in 2009.

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Despite this good news, we are not going to rest on our laurels. That's because the number of people killed in preventable roadway tragedies is simply too high; 30,000 deaths is 30,000 too many.  And if you lost a loved one to a crash in 2010, or know someone who did, then you know exactly what I mean.

This Department will not stop pressing forward on road safety. We will continue working vigorously to protect the lives of everyone who uses our roadways.