Viewpoint

Aliceann Wolhbruck, Executive Director, NADO Research Foundation

The landmark Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), enacted in 1998, marked the beginning of a new era in rural transportation. With the act came federal funds to improve transportation infrastructure and services in rural areas, and a greater role for rural officials in the decision-making and planning processes. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) support local elected officials and regional development organizations in their efforts to share best practices in rural and regional transportation planning.

Four years later, NADO and its members continue to recognize the importance of the nation’s transportation system in rural areas. Of the total US public highway network of approximately 3.9 million miles, 81 percent pass through rural areas. In addition, interstates and other arteries comprise about eight percent of the rural total, while collectors (roads used for short distances, within county travel at moderate speeds) and local routes make up the remaining 92 percent.

Considering the following facts, it is clear that rural highways and transit systems are critical to the nation’s economic well-being:

Transportation accounts for nearly 11 percent of our nation’s gross domestic product.

Approximately 70 percent of all freight is transported over US highways.

The impact of $1 billion of highway investment is 44,709 full-time jobs.

The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) will be re-authorized in 2003. Transportation in rural areas is vital for access to basic needs, such as food and housing, and to public services, such as public education, health, police and fire protection services. Transportation also contributes significantly to rural economic development by providing residents a link to jobs, offering rural businesses access to customers, and enhancing the movement of commercial products.

Recognizing the importance of intermodal transportation to rural America, FHWA released Serving Rural America, an informative guide about DOT programs that serve rural America. FHWA has also established the Rural Capacity Building Initiative aimed at helping rural communities expand planning activities. Near completion, the Initiative is a component of a larger program of FHWA and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Its goal is to strengthen and build the capacity of transportation-planning activities in states, metropolitan areas and small communities, including rural areas.

June 2002 Index | Previous Page