ARTBA comments on impact of US shutdown for transportation

American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) president and CEO Pete Ruane has highlighted issues for transport caused by the impact of the US Government shutdown. “Improving the efficiency of the environmental review and approval process was one of the signature achievements of the 2012 surface transportation law—MAP-21. Achieving this goal was a clear priority for members of Congress from both parties and chambers. “Major highway and bridge projects can take between nine and 19 years to
October 11, 2013 Read time: 2 mins
American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) president and CEO Pete Ruane has highlighted issues for transport caused by the impact of the 908 US Government shutdown. “Improving the efficiency of the environmental review and approval process was one of the signature achievements of the 2012 surface transportation law—MAP-21.  Achieving this goal was a clear priority for members of Congress from both parties and chambers.

“Major highway and bridge projects can take between nine and 19 years to complete—largely due to inefficiencies in the review process that delay needed mobility and safety improvements.

“To put this in context, the 2410 Federal Highway Administration states that as of August 22 there are 129 projects from 35 states currently undergoing the Environmental Impact Statement process.  

“Due to furloughs in the environmental and resource agencies, however, the approval process for transportation projects is encountering more obstacles. This outcome is the exact opposite of the goals of MAP-21’s streamlining provisions.

“There are two things the construction industry needs to deliver the transportation network that moves our economy—adequate and reliable funding and approved projects.

“The fact remains that if environmental regulators can't do their job, we can’t do ours.”

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