America’s transportation system — the network of highways, railroads, public transportation, walkways and bikeways — serves as the backbone of our economy, connects our communities and provides access to the American Dream of opportunity for all. But today it is both incomplete and threatened.
Our national transportation policy has barely changed since the 1950s, when gas was 20 cents a gallon and President Eisenhower launched the interstate highway system. Today, we live in a very different world. The interstates have been built. Americans are paying record prices at the pump and feeling stuck with costly commutes and congestion. Bridges are crumbling. As our population becomes ever more urban, more are breathing dirty air. Our climate is threatened. Too many older, younger and rural Americans are stranded. Volatile areas of the world literally have us over a barrel — millions of barrels a day, in fact.
Yes, Americans need options that are cheaper, faster, and cleaner. And the nation needs a healthy transportation system that is ready for the rapidly changing economy of the 21st Century.
TO THAT END,
Transportation for America has formed a broad coalition of housing, business, environmental, public health, transportation, equitable development, and other organizations. We’re all seeking to align our national, state, and local transportation policies with an array of issues like economic opportunity, climate change, energy security, health, housing and community development.
Issues that will play a key role in strengthening the foundation of our nation and give families and individuals greater, and more appealing options.