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

Georgia mayors working together to keep the Peach State moving

Last week, I wrote about the terrific partnership DOT has enjoyed with America's mayors. Readers might recall that throughout the past four years, DOT has also put a great deal of emphasis on regional partnerships where state, county, and municipal leaders come together for a common purpose.

Well, this morning I had the pleasure of acknowledging mayors and regional partnerships at the Georgia Municipal Association Mayors' Day Conference in Atlanta.

Because municipal leaders in Georgia have been able to agree on a set of priorities, the Obama Administration has been able to make key investments in the state's transportation infrastructure. Altogether, DOT has invested nearly $4.5 billion in Georgia’s highways and $865 million in Georgia’s transit systems since 2009.

We started with the Recovery Act, which financed 398 transportation projects in Georgia—rebuilding 28 Georgia bridges and improving almost 1,400 miles of Georgia roads. And we provided $148 million to improve Georgia’s transit systems.

Odometer fraud investigation another key part of the NHTSA safety mission

When you're thinking about buying a used car or truck, one of the first questions a smart consumer asks is, "How many miles does it have on it?"

And that's why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Office of Odometer Fraud Investigations works closely with the Department of Justice to protect consumers from the threat altered odometers pose to their wallets...and their safety.

Buyers check the odometer to learn what they can about a vehicle's history. We have come to trust the odometer as an authoritative window into what we can expect from a vehicle, but sometimes an unscrupulous seller abuses that trust.

Last week for example--thanks to an OFI investigation--a federal grand jury in Philadelphia unsealed an indictment charging two individuals from Florida with making false odometer statements, securities fraud, and conspiracy. According to the indictment, as early as 2004, the defendants devised a scheme to buy high-mileage vehicles, alter the odometer readings, and resell them in Pennsylvania. Through at least 2010, they allegedly defrauded the buyers of approximately 247 vehicles.

The indictment claims that in some instances, the true mileage of the vehicle was greater than 100,000 miles more than what the title indicated.

Hazmat emergency? There’s an app for that; PHMSA makes first responders’ Emergency Response Guidebook available as free mobile app

When we think about transportation, many of us think about the passenger vehicles we ride in— buses, cars, airplanes, and trains. But at the Department of Transportation, we also oversee the safe shipment of important goods like gasoline and diesel, hazardous materials that travel across the country in a network of pipelines before powering the vehicles we use to get where we need to go.

Each day, there are nearly 1 million hazmat shipments across America. The safety record for these shipments is good, but unfortunately, accidents occasionally happen. And when they do, the first 30 minutes are critical for quickly and safely containing hazardous materials.

That’s why our Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration distributes an updated Emergency Response Guidebook to our nation’s first responders every four years. And this year, we’re releasing free apps for iPhone and Android, making the ERG more accessible than it’s ever been.

The free app— which is geared for first responders—can be downloaded from iTunes and Google Play. If you want to learn more about how to use the ERG, please tune into the instructional video here. 

Last May, PHMSA, distributed more than 2 million free hardcopies of the 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook to firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and law enforcement officers. The mobile app will put this on-the-scene resource in the hands of even more first responders, making it easier for them to quickly look up the information they need, even at night when a hardcopy could be tough to read.

Serving those who served us; FMCSA cuts red tape for veterans

Nearly two years ago, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued a rule that makes it easier for veterans to take the first step toward getting a job as a professional truck or bus driver. The FMCSA rule allows veterans with two years of experience safely driving a commercial motor vehicle in the military to apply for a civilian commercial driver’s license. To obtain a civilian CDL, qualifying veterans are only required to pass a written test.

Since we issued this rule, 44 states have either adopted the veterans provision or are in the process of adopting it. Most recently, the State of Maryland officially joined those ranks this month.

FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro with Maryland Lt. Governor Anthony Brown

By waiving the driver skills test for veterans, the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles is offering veterans a quicker route to getting their commercial drivers’ licenses, a key step in the transition to civilian careers.

High Speed Rail kicks off 2013 with Key Milestones

Last week, even before President Obama reminded us in his inaugural address of the importance of railroads to the American economy, two events marked a significant step forward in U.S. high-speed rail.

First, on Wednesday,  the California High Speed Rail Authority announced that by the end of the week the state would receive final sealed bids for the first leg of the Golden State's high-speed rail project. On the following day, Amtrak and the California High-Speed Rail Authority jointly issued a "Request For Information" seeking to purchase high-speed rail locomotives and passenger cars currently being manufactured and in commercial service that are capable of operating safely at speeds up to 220 mph.

True to the CaHSRA announcement, on Friday five major firms submitted their final bids to build the first 29 miles of high speed train track in California's Central Valley. This brings the state's largest infrastructure undertaking in history one step closer to breaking ground later this year. And that means President Obama's vision of high speed rail in America is one step closer to reality.

Also last week, the state gave the CaHSRA permission to begin acquiring the necessary land for the Central Valley line, and that's even more good news. Given the increasing number of passengers on Amtrak routes in the Central Valley--up 6.4 percent in Bakersfield and 5.9 percent in Fresno for 2012--construction can't start soon enough.

CaHSRA CEO Jeff MOrales, FRA Administrator Joseph Szabo, and Amtrak President Joe Boardman
Photo credit: Kitty Felde/KPCC

America's mayors getting the job done

Readers of the Fast Lane will recall that last Friday I returned to the Motor City to announce a big step forward in federal support for greater Detroit's M-1 Rail project. As significant as that announcement is for the people and businesses of the metropolitan Detroit region, it's also important to remember that it is just the latest sign of the Obama Administration's support for America's cities.

In fact, later that same day, I returned to Washington, DC, to speak to the Transportation and Communications Committee of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. And although we talked about many specifics--including how the new surface transportation law affects our cities, innovative transportation project financing, and transit safety--my primary message was one of partnership.

For the past four years, we at DOT have enjoyed effective partnerships at many levels that have allowed us to improve our nation's infrastructure and transportation safety while also putting thousands of men and women back to work. Whether it's with State DOTs, independent safety organizations, or other federal agencies, teaming up with others has allowed us to do our job that much better.

And through these four years, we have had no better partners than America's mayors.

I've been to more than 200 communities in the United States, and I can assure you that our mayors are getting the job done. 

They have been strong advocates--like Philadelphia's Michael Nutter--for improving existing transportation infrastructure. They have been bold--like Sacramento's Kevin Johnson--proposing dramatic extensions of existing infrastructure. They have been persistent--like Detroit's Dave Bing--steadfastly championing big ideas, building critical momentum and public-private support. They have been visionary--like Dubuque's Roy Buol--looking at dormant factories and mills and seeing a vibrant, livable future. They have been forward thinking--like Tulsa's Dewey Bartlett--recognizing the value of inland ports to our economic and environmental future.

Port of Los Angeles railyard upgrades to speed movement of goods, cut congestion and emissions

The U.S. is home to more than 300 ports, and each is a vital piece of our national economy. It’s important that they operate both efficiently and competitively; that’s why I’m excited to see the Port of Los Angeles’ West Basin Railyard beginning construction. 

When this project is completed, the port will be able to move products from ships onto rail cars within the port, reducing the region’s need for trucks. That means fewer trucks on local streets, which reduces traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions for the community.

Perhaps most importantly, the railway construction will contribute more than 1000 jobs to our steadily growing economy.

The West Basin Railyard will improve the connection between the Port and the Alameda Corridor, a rail line that carries about 15 percent of all waterborne containers entering or leaving the United States.

The West Basin Railyard project will construct an intermodal railyard, which includes staging and storage tracks to connect on-dock railyards with the Alameda Corridor. It will also include a railyard for the short-line railroad serving Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe, the Port of Los Angeles, and the Port of Long Beach.

The project will also remove two at-grade rail-highway crossings, relieving congestion.

Thanks, in part, to $16 million in TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant funding, the construction of this railyard will create jobs and provide lasting infrastructure improvement to help speed the movement of goods into and out of the busy Port of Los Angeles.

2013 National Day of Service; DOT turns out in force

This morning, I want to thank the millions of Americans who turned out last Saturday for the 2013 Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service.

Just as yesterday's Presidential Inauguration is a testament to our enduring democracy, the commitment to service demonstrated over the weekend is a testament to the enduring values of our people.  As President Obama has said, “America has never been about what can be done for us; it's about what can be done by us together.”

I also want to thank, in particular, the great folks here at DOT and their families for volunteering their time and energy to service projects in the DC area and across the country.

Whether it was cutting back invasive plants with the Rock Creek Conservancy as many of us did--including Will Farber, who at just 1 month old was DOT's youngest volunteer--or putting together care packages for American servicemen and women in Afghanistan--as Deputy St. Lawrence Seaway Administrator Craig Middlebrook and his son Henry did--the DOT team has made me proud yet again.

Further north, many of the midshipmen from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy took part in a clean-up at Jones Beach State Park organized by For The Shore as part of the continued response to Hurricane Sandy.

Also on Saturday's Day of Service, Deputy Secretary John Porcari and I had a chance to spend
some time with DOT safety champions Vince and Larry

Detroit area's M-1 streetcar line gets a big green light

For many in the Metropolitan Detroit region, the M-1 Rail project has been a long time coming. Well, I'm happy to say that--after decades of hard work by many, many people--today is the day they've been waiting for.

I was in Detroit earlier this week for the 2013 Auto Show, and I saw the car industry's comeback there firsthand. And today I went back to help the city of Detroit launch a comeback of its own with the announcement of a $25 million commitment from DOT to support construction of the long-awaited streetcar line.

The 3.3 mile streetcar line along historic Woodward Avenue is expected to include 11 stations, with connections to Campus Martius, Comerica Park (home of the Detroit Tigers), the Detroit Medical Center area, and Wayne State University. It will put residents in touch with thousands of local jobs, education, medical care, and other destinations for residents in the Detroit metro area. It will also help them save money on gas.

When we launched our TIGER program in 2009, I said that good transportation projects need good partnerships. Whether it's an effort between regional jurisdictions or collaboration between public and private organizations, a strong partnership can more easily mobilize the resources needed to get big things done and deliver benefits to the community.

I applaud Michigan’s leaders for doing exactly that.

First, a coalition of private-sector philanthropic and business leaders came together and committed more than $100 million toward construction and operation of the $137 million project. Now, the State of Michigan has created a Regional Transportation Authority that connects the city of Detroit with Wayne, Macomb, Oakland, and Washtenaw Counties. The M-1 brings both of these coalitions together and also includes the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Southeastern Michigan Council of Governments.

This is the kind of broad-based partnership we need to build the 21st century infrastructure people demand.

Everywhere I travel in the U.S., people tell me they need more transportation options. Transit systems like the M-1 are a lifeline for hardworking Americans.

Today’s announcement allows the M-1 Rail project to move forward immediately using a $25 million TIGER grant previously awarded for transit in Detroit.  We also announced an additional $6.5 million in FTA planning funds available from prior fiscal years to help Michigan develop a bus rapid transit network to further expand transit options connecting downtown Detroit with its suburbs and key destinations in the region.

In addition to helping people get around more easily, the M-1 will also create jobs, spur economic growth, and revitalize Woodward Avenue. As Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff said, "The M-1 Rail project will truly be a catalyst for bringing new jobs, employers, retailers, and attractions into downtown, Midtown, and the New Center area."

This is a very important step forward—for Detroit today and for future generations.

Leaders like Michigan Governor Snyder, Detroit Mayor Bing, U.S. Senator Carl Levin, and Congressman John Dingell understand that although Detroit is the Motor City, it nonetheless needs better public transportation.

We look forward to continuing to work with area leaders who have the vision and commitment to make Detroit a model for livability and progress.

2013 Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service: How will you serve?

My family and Deputy Secretary John Porcari's family serving in Rock Creek Park;
stay tuned to the Fast Lane for more on DOT service activities

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'"

And each year, Americans across the country answer that question by coming together on the King Holiday to serve their neighbors and communities. The MLK Day of Service is a part of United We Serve, the President's national call-to-service initiative. It asks Americans from all walks of life to work together and give something back to their community.

The DOT family has participated annually in this celebration of Dr. King's legacy, and we'll be pitching in again this year. However, because this year's Day of Service corresponds with our Presidential Inauguration, the Obama Administration is making a special call for a spectacular turnout of volunteers--not just in Washington, DC, but nationwide.

President Obama believes that service should be a lifelong commitment—whether it's at the school, community, city, state, or national level. And because the President thinks that,  "We are better together," he and his family are continuing the tradition they started four years ago with a National Day of Service on January 19th, 2013.

Today, Americans are volunteering in increasing numbers, and interest in national service and civic participation continues to grow. Building on this momentum, we encourage all Americans to serve on MLK Day and long after the Inauguration. As President Obama has said, “America's never been about what can be done for us; it's about what can be done by us together.”

And to make it easier to find a service opportunity, the 2013 Presidential Inauguration Committee has a convenient one-stop online site to help. Just plug in the zip code where you want to lend a hand, and let the National Day of Service search tool do the rest.

I'll be serving with my family and other volunteers this Saturday. I hope you'll join us in service wherever it's convenient for you.

Need some motivation to get online and find a service opportunity near you? Remember Dr. King's words: "Everyone can be great...because anyone can serve."

DOT leaders talk MAP-21 at TRB

This morning, I want to take the opportunity to thank the many DOT professionals who have been on panels, delivered talks and papers, and worked with thousands of transportation stakeholders this week at the 2013 Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting.

Yesterday's panel discussion of MAP-21, the new surface transportation law, is one example of DOT leaders sharing their expertise with the transportation community.

DOT Undersecretary for Policy Polly Trottenberg at TRB

The MAP-21 panel, led by our newly sworn-in Undersecretary for Policy, Polly Trottenberg, drew a packed house. It's clear that the transportation community understands that MAP-21 signals a new era for all of us, and the panelists--Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez, Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Management and Budget Sylvia Garcia, and NHTSA Senior Associate Administrator Brian McLaughlin--did a great job explaining the changes this era brings.

And there is plenty of good news to share.

First, on the safety front, MAP-21 gives the FTA long-awaited oversight authority for transit safety. As Administrator Rogoff said, "For years, we asked for the ability to protect America's transit riders and give them the confidence a national set of safety standards would mean. And now that Congress has given it to us, we will absolutely live up to this responsibility."

Also in safety, Associate Administrator McLaughlin talked about the grants MAP-21 makes available to NHTSA to support efforts to end distracted driving. This new program makes available approximately $17.5 million in fiscal year 2013 to states that have laws banning distracted driving. Congress has also authorized an additional $5 million for NHTSA to develop paid advertising to support state enforcement of laws against distracted driving.

To support infrastructure efforts and job creation, MAP-21 offers a significant boost to our TIFIA financing and credit assistance program. The $1.75 billion Congress has made available for TIFIA can lead to $17 billion in loans for needed transportation projects around the country. And those loans can then lead to billions more in private sector and other investments.

At the 2013 TRB Chairman's Lunch, DOT message is "Safety first"

When you're talking to a hall filled with transportation professionals, it's tempting to talk about infrastructure—the importance of researching it, financing it, building it, and maintaining it. And when I addressed the TRB Chairman's Lunch earlier today, I made the case that, over the last four years, the Obama Administration has made unprecedented investments in our nation’s transportation system.

But, as I’ve said many times before, safety is DOT's number one priority. And as hard as we've worked to renew America's transportation infrastructure, we've worked even harder to ensure that everyone who uses that infrastructure can get where they're going as safely as possible.

So today at TRB, I also made a point of giving DOT’s safety efforts their due.

In 2011, the nation saw the lowest number of deaths on our nation’s highways since 1949 --that’s the lowest rate ever recorded. And that is due to three factors: safer vehicles, improved safety awareness among drivers, and stronger enforcement.

Over the last four years, we’ve worked with our safety partners to encourage people to buckle up, get drunk drivers off the road, and end our distracted driving epidemic. For the first time, we made distracted driving part of the national conversation, and we launched a national campaign to stop drivers from using hand-held cell phones and from texting behind the wheel.

Today, 39 states ban texting while driving; 10 states ban hand-held cell phone use.

Through law enforcement crackdowns and our annual Roadcheck inspection program, we've also worked hard to make sure America's commercial drivers operate safely and their vehicles are in safe working order. And with Safety Edge and other innovations, we're working to make sure the roads themselves offer every safety advantage available to travelers.

TRB toasts University Transportation Centers program on its 25th anniversary

As I wrote yesterday, my TRB-week kicked off with a High Speed Rail Workshop last Sunday. Another TRB event that I was happy to participate in that day was the 25th anniversary celebration of our University Transportation Centers program.

The purpose of these Centers, or UTCs, is to advance U.S. technology and expertise in the many
forms of transportation that make up our national system; to provide a strong transportation knowledge base outside DOT; and to address vital workforce needs for the next generation of transportation leaders.

Throughout our nation’s history, transportation innovations such as the Erie Canal, the transcontinental railroad, the automobile, and the Federal Interstate Highway System have all had a distinctive American quality, and they’ve made us who we are today by literally giving us greater access to opportunity. These improvements wouldn’t be possible without a strong and vibrant academic community. Our academic institutions are the heart of innovation in transportation. And DOT has been proud to work with educators and researchers to support our nation’s transportation goals.

Over the last 25 years, the University Transportation Centers program operated by our Research and Innovative Technology Administration has been DOT's vital link to a pipeline of knowledge and new talent. I know the same holds true for the state transportation agencies and industry leaders who also work closely with UTCs.

For example, the research conducted by UTCs has been critical to helping end our distracted driving epidemic by making us aware of the time and attention sending a text or making a call takes away from driving. A 2012 Rahall Transportation Institute study identified substantial economic benefits from public-private partnerships for construction of the I-73/74 National Highway System Corridor in West Virginia.  And a transit-focused research study from the University of South Florida helped develop a mobile application that helps riders with disabilities navigate transit systems in Florida.

Partnership for Sustainable Communities visits Cincinnati, Indianapolis

The new year is only a couple of weeks old, but readers of this blog know that DOT has hit the ground running. Bridge, tunnel, port, and transit projects are starting. We continue pursuing safety as our top priority. And we're working hard to make sure Americans have the transportation system they deserve.

Deputy Secretary John Porcari began 2013 just as he finished 2012 –working hard to improve transportation options for Americans across the country. Last week, Deputy Secretary Porcari was in Cincinnati and Indianapolis, with his counterparts from HUD and EPA, reviewing both cities' progress on key projects funded by the federal Partnership for Sustainable Communities.

Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory (speaking), with Deputy Secretary John Porcari

Now in its third year, the DOT-HUD-EPA Partnership for Sustainable Communities has provided a big lift to cities and regions trying to coordinate transportation, housing, and environmental projects. Planners have long known that decisions in any one of these three areas are interconnected with policies in the other two. The federal Partnership recognizes this and coordinates federal investments to reinforce good policy.

In Cincinnati, Deputy Secretary Porcari and others traveled along the future route of the Cincinnati Streetcar. This 3.6 mile loop will connect Cincinnati's Central Business District with the Over the Rhine neighborhood and is being funded by $40 million in DOT TIGER, Urban Circulator, and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grants, as well as $85 million in local public and private funds.

Along the projected route for the Cincinnati Streetcar

Auto industry back in gear; good news from the Detroit Auto Show

Today, I went back to Detroit for the 2013 North American International Auto Show. It was perhaps my 11th or 12th visit to the Motor City since becoming Secretary of Transportation, and --let me tell you-- what a difference four years makes.

Four years ago when President Obama took office, America was in the midst of the worst economic recession since the Great Depression. As most of you know, this recession hit our auto industry hard. In the year before the president’s inauguration, the industry lost more than 400,000 jobs. Two great American auto companies stood on the brink. In Detroit, a dreary cloud hung over the 2009 auto show, and journalists were writing obituaries for the entire industry.

President Obama had two choices. He could do nothing, or he could take action.

Well, he did the right thing, and he took action. He refused to turn his back, and he made a commitment to stand by the American auto industry, to stand by the American parts manufacturers who support it, and to stand by the American workers who make it great.

At the 2013 auto show, I'm happy to say, all signs point to that commitment having paid tremendous dividends. This morning I saw a new energy and confidence, and it is clear to me that the U.S. auto industry is back.

High speed rail workshop gets TRB 2013 started on the fast track

For transportation professionals around the country, there's no week like TRB week--the Transportaton Research Board's Annual Meeting. The gathering, which got started yesterday here in Washington, DC, brings together more than 11,000 policy makers, administrators, practitioners, researchers, and representatives of government, industry, and academic institutions from all around the globe.

I was pleased to kick off my TRB week yesterday with Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph Szabo and Deputy Administrator Karen Hedlund at a workshop on the "Economics and Social Impacts of High Speed Rail Systems."

Sponsored by TRB's Intercity Passenger Rail Committee and the Mineta Transportation Institute, this all-day workshop featured sessions on the financing, challenges, and benefits of high speed rail, as well as updates on the status of U.S. and international high speed rail projects.

My message to workshop participants was straightforward: high speed rail is well on its way, and it is not turning back.

In just four years, we have made significant progress transforming President Obama's vision of American high speed rail into reality. Rail passengers on many routes are already enjoying some of the benefits of track and equipment upgrades, and every day brings us closer to true high speed.

Workforce development grants from FTA will boost transit agencies and job-seekers

This Administration has made unprecedented investments in our nation's transportation system. These investments have created jobs, and they have helped position us for a cleaner, safer, and more economically competitive future. But we won't be able to continue building or running the systems we build without talented people to do the work.

So today, we're announcing $7 million in workforce development grants from the Federal Transit Administration to 17 organizations in 12 different states.

In addition to supporting America's transit systems, these grants reflect the Obama Administration's commitment to helping Americans find good jobs.

Over the last four years, President Obama has encouraged us to work toward an America that offers its people and businesses reliable, affordable, and safe transportation choices. One of those choices --which an increasing number of Americans are choosing-- is public transportation, or transit.

Here at DOT, we think that's terrific, and we're looking forward to continuing to work with communities across the U.S. to help them create the transit services they need. We also want to ensure that there are well-trained people available to our nation's communities who can build, maintain, and operate their public transportation systems. And that's where the grants we announced today will make a big difference.

They'll make a big difference for the transit systems in those cities, but especially to the men and women who will be prepared for good transit careers thanks to the programs that the FTA's Workforce Development Grants support.

Elizabeth River Tunnels Project Kicks Off; New tunnel will help area residents save time and money

Since it opened 50 years ago, the volume of traffic in the Midtown Tunnel connecting Portsmouth and Norfolk, Virginia, has increased by 600 percent. Currently, more than 120,000 drivers use the two-lane tunnel to cross the Elizabeth River each and every day.

The communities of Virginia Beach, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, and Norfolk are home to tens of thousands of military families and civilian workers supporting our armed forces, the shipbuilding industry, a busy port, and other employers. This very popular region has seen tremendous grwoth recently, but the cost of that growth has been increased congestion. These folks deserve a new option for getting where they need to go.

Fortunately, the Elizabeth River Tunnels Project kicked-off today. And our Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez was there to help celebrate the big event.

Photo courtesy VDOT

The Elizabeth River Tunnels Project will construct a new two-lane tunnel between Norfolk and Portsmouth running parallel to the existing tunnel. In addition to reducing congestion by building a new tunnel, the project will provide a seamless connection between an extended Martin Luther King Expressway and I-264, saving the region's drivers even more time. Once the new Midtown Tunnel is complete, the average round-trip driver using the tunnel will gain about 30 minutes a day, saving fuel costs and cutting greenhouse gas emissions, too.

We’re also rehabilitating the existing Midtown Tunnel tube as well as the nearby Downtown Tunnel, which will further increase safety for drivers, passengers, and cargo.

New Congress means new opportunities to advance transportation priorities

Last week, a new year kicked off here in Washington, DC, with the swearing in of the 113th Congress. Now, new Representatives and Senators will join their returning colleagues from around the nation to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing America today--including transportation. As Secretary of Transportation, and as a former U.S. Representative from Illinois, I congratulate all of them and wish them great success as they take up their important work.

In addition to congratulating the 113th, I also want them to know that I look forward to working with them to address our national transportation priorities.

The Freshman Class of the 113th on the steps of the U.S. Capitol; photo courtesy National Journal

Last year, the 112th Congress passed the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21).  This new surface transportation law streamlines and consolidates many programs, adds important new ones, and --most importantly--gives DOT the legislative authority to operate for the next two years.

MAP-21 allows DOT to continue increasing safety on our nation's roads and transit systems. It allows us to continue improving the way we move the freight that fuels our economy. And it allows us to continue investing in the infrastructure our country needs to succeed--all while putting thousands of Americans to work.

Members of the 113th House take the oath; photo courtesy Washington Post

Michael Huerta sworn in as 17th FAA Administrator

This morning, I was particularly pleased to administer the oath of office to America's 17th Federal Aviation Administrator, Michael Huerta. Administrator Huerta's swearing-in was a momentous occasion for the Federal Aviation Administration, for Michael and his family, for the aviation industry, and for the nation. 

As Deputy Administrator and as Acting Administrator, Michael has managed a number of challenges over the past couple of years--with tenacity, skill, and diplomacy.  And as its new leader, I know he will ensure an even stronger future for the FAA and everyone who flies in our nation’s skies.

Already during his time at the FAA, Michael has done a terrific job helping position the agency to deliver NextGen–the Next Generation Air Transportation System. NextGen is our cutting-edge program that will enable more on-time, fuel-efficient flights, a win-win situation for airlines and travelers alike. And he recently established a new organization within the agency to focus on implementing future major technology programs.

Through his leadership, Michael has generated much goodwill among FAA employees. For example, in November he traveled to New York to personally thank FAA professionals for their efforts to keep the region's aviation system operating smoothly after superstorm Sandy.

Then Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta (left) talks with Tech Ops employees Jim Coolbaugh Jr. (center) and Eric Spare about work to repair the Runway 31 Localizer after it was damaged by Sandy

I look forward to seeing Michael put his vision for the FAA into action.

But I know that at the top of Administrator Huerta's plans is a continued push for our top priority: ensuring the safety of the traveling public. As he said today, “I want to see us eliminate every vestige of risk in our aviation system and raise the bar even higher as the safest aviation system in the world.”

Michael Huerta has been an extraordinary transportation leader, and I am confident that we could have found no better Administrator for the FAA.

As the Seaway navigation season ends, the important winter maintenance season begins

At midnight on December 29th, the two U.S. locks of the St. Lawrence Seaway System were closed to traffic, ending the Seaway’s 54th navigation season. But although no more ships will be coming through the system this winter, activity at the locks has not slowed down at all.

In fact, work is under way at both the Eisenhower and Snell locks 24/7 in order to accomplish the necessary capital improvement and maintenance projects that must be completed before the locks reopen to vessel traffic in late March.

The first step is dewatering the locks. Pumping out 23 million gallons of water takes about 60 hours to complete. As the locks dry out, crews of Seaway workers and contractors bring in the machinery and materials needed to begin the maintenance and rehabilitation work on the Seaway’s infrastructure.

It’s also pretty cold up there in the North Country during the winter, so crews build enclosures and use heaters to warm isolated areas as needed for activities like replacing concrete and applying paints.

Winter work routinely consists of inspecting, performing maintenance on, and repairing the various lock structures, operating machinery, and controls that can only be accessed when a lock is dewatered and the Seaway is closed.

In addition to this annual work, the Seaway is in its fifth year of a robust Asset Renewal Program (ARP), a 58-project, multi-million dollar program to renew the infrastructure that is now more than 50 years old.

Gerald Desmond Bridge replacement a vital piece of America's future

As our economy grows stronger, it is more important than ever to improve the way we move goods into and out of our nation's ports. That's why Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez was happy to be at the Port of Long Beach, California, earlier today to mark the groundbreaking of the Gerald Desmond Bridge Replacement.

For more than 40 years, the Gerald Desmond Bridge has been part of the Long Beach, California community. It has been vital in supporting the daily commuting needs of tens of thousands of local residents, but it very likely has also been a vital part of your life, even if you live halfway across the country.

You see, the Gerald Desmond bridge connects the Port of Long Beach--one of America's busiest ports--with the rest of the country. And that means that more than 10 percent of the goods and materials entering the United States cross the Gerald Desmond enroute to stores, homes, factories, and farms across the nation. Because the bridge also carries products to the Port bound for international markets, the bridge indirectly supports jobs at companies nationwide who rely on sales overseas.

Unfortunately, the 44-year-old bridge can no longer keep up with the transportation demand it faces.  It is already handling more than double the traffic volume it was designed for and has been severely strained in recent years as port volumes increased.

In addition to frequent traffic jams, the bridge's superstructure is so decrepit that giant nets were placed on its underside to prevent concrete chunks from falling onto roadways and waterways below. In 2009, the California Department of Transportation gave the bridge a 48 (out of 100) "sufficiency rating," putting it high on the list of roadways needing replacement.

A section of the Gerald Desmond Bridge with safety netting to catch falling debris

NHTSA proposes sound standards to make quiet cars safer

Two years ago, President Obama signed the bipartisan Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2010. This law required our National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to ensure that electric and hybrid car manufacturers add noises that alert the blind and other pedestrians of a nearby vehicle.

And yesterday, in fulfillment of this congressional requirement, NHTSA proposed minimum sound standards to help make all pedestrians--and bicyclists--more aware of the approaching vehicles.

Because hybrid and electric vehicles operate so quietly, particularly at low speeds, they are more difficult for pedestrians and cyclists to detect when a vehicle is coming. This problem is even bigger for the visually impaired who rely on sounds for guidance.

The Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act sought to fix that, and yesterday's proposal is the result of NHTSA enthusiastically taking up the challenge. The proposal is now open to public comment for the next 60 days, so stay tuned for an update later this year.

Under the new standards, vehicle sounds would need to be detectable under a wide range of street noises and other background sounds when a vehicle is traveling slower than 18 miles per hour.  At that speed and above, vehicles make sufficient noise to allow pedestrians and bicyclists to detect them without added sound. 

Sacramento light rail expands with a lift from FTA

It's a new year, but at DOT we're picking up right where 2012 ended--by acting on our commitment to expand transportation choices. Today in California--with help from the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment grant program--we did exactly that by signing a full funding grant agreement to extend the Sacramento Regional Transit District's light rail system.

The 4.3 mile Blue Line extension will link downtown Sacramento with the growing South County corridor, offering commuters an alternative to driving and connecting the faculty, staff, and students at Cosumnes River College with the shops, restaurants and other businesses in the heart of the city.

Artist's rendering of the Morrison Creek Station

When you build transit, you also open the door to new local economic development. Just as we've seen with new transit projects across America, in addition to improving access to Sacramento's major employers, extending the Blue Line will also encourage economic development near the extension's four new stations. For example, developers are already preparing to build up the area around the Morrison Creek Station.

New stores and services, new employers, and new housing will combine with the light rail extension to create communities where people can live and shop closer to where they work.

Photo courtesy Dennis McCoy, Sacramento Business Journal

Mariners hoopsters visit DC to face conference rivals

I make no secret of how much I value DOT's service academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY.  And many at DOT share my appreciation. So you can understand our excitement at the opportunity to welcome the USMMA men's and women's basketball teams to Washington, DC, this past Saturday to  face their Landmark Conference rivals, Catholic University.

Maritime Administrator David Matsuda gave me the play-by-play on the Mariners’ efforts to bring some victories back to Kings Point.

Administrator Matsuda with the USMMA Women's Basketball Team

The Lady Mariners fought hard against the 20th-ranked Cardinals with leadership from point guard Marlee Chovich of Lake Oswego, Oregon. Unfortunately, despite a strong second half scoring effort from Reshonda Josephs of nearby Culpepper, VA, our Mariners fell to the reigning Landmark Conference champions, 67-30.

During the women's play, the men's team watched supportively, mentally preparing for a tough matchup of their own against the nationally-ranked Catholic University Cardinals.

Senior captain Roshenda Josephs' double-double came from a team-high 11 points and 11 rebounds
Photo courtesy www.usmmasports.com.

Pipeline Safety Act one year later

One year ago today, President Obama signed into law the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act (PSA). Our nation's pipelines offer the safest and most cost-effective way to transport the natural gas and and other products we need to heat our homes and power our economy, and this legislation gave our Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration the ability to make those pipelines even safer.

As PHMSA Administrator Cynthia Quarterman recently noted, "We know that domestic energy production and pipeline investments are up and will likely continue to grow. The Pipeline Safety Act gives us the tools to stay ahead of this shifting demand."

In just the first year under the Pipeline Safety Act, PHMSA initiated several rulemakings to improve the way pipeline operators manage the strength --also called the integrity-- of gas and liquid pipelines. To make the new rules even more effective, the agency also produced a thorough, multi-chapter webinar to educate the pipeline community about the latest integrity management requirements.

The law also required PHMSA to develop pipeline safety standards that require operators to install automatic or remote-controlled pipeline shut-off valves and excess flow valves. These valves can play a critical role in shutting off the flow of material and stopping leaks. In 2012 PHMSA studied those valves in preparation for issuing new standards.

To communicate to the industry and the public, PHMSA also held several meetings and webinars covering topics such as leak detection, enforcement procedures, and state damage excavation laws. And to make sure pipelines are meeting our safety standards, PHMSA has hired and trained additional federal pipeline safety inspectors, bringing the total authorized by the new law to 135 nationwide.

Changes from MAP-21 keep DOT busy in 2012...and 2013

For transportation folks, one of the biggest developments of 2012 was the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act --or MAP-21-- that President Obama signed into law last July. This two-year surface transportation law changed and streamlined many DOT programs as well as introducing a few new ones.

Putting those changes into action was a stiff challenge for DOT professionals, and I'm happy to say they have been up to that challenge.

MAP-21 meant crafting dozens of fact sheets and other documents to provide guidance to transportation planners who will help carry out the new programs across the United States. It meant creating a multi-modal Freight Policy Council to develop a National Strategic Freight Plan. It meant beginning to forge a transit safety program from whole cloth. And it meant an extensive effort to communicate the law's many changes to America's transportation community.

In just three months, and in time for the October 1 MAP-21 start date, we published fact sheets on all Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration programs and prepared interim guidance for DOT's largest programs.

Also, on its MAP-21 website, FHWA made available 39 different question and answer documents covering a wide range of topics from Innovative Project Delivery to Highway Safety to Environmental Review.  Many of those documents were prepared in partnership with FTA, and I'm really pleased to see that cross-agency collaboration at DOT. FTA's MAP-21 website features its own FAQs and 17 different fact sheets on topics like Capital Investment Projects (which many of us know as "New Starts"), Metropolitan Planning, and State of Good Repair.

New Year brings new approach to transit projects

In Fiscal Years 2011 and 2012, our Federal Transit Administration signed more capital construction agreements for transit projects through its New Starts and Small Starts Program than in any two-year period in the agency’s history. That means that FTA is getting more transit projects started than ever before, bringing more communities the transportation options they want and need, and creating more jobs --hundreds of thousands of them-- at a time when families really need them.

Now, FTA is making a New Year's resolution to make it easier to submit projects for New Starts and Small Starts funding, and last week's Final Rule for Major Capital Investment Projects is a terrific first step. This revised approach streamlines the transit project approval process so communities can enjoy the benefits of transit more quickly.

The new rule reflects the Obama Administration’s ongoing commitment to strengthening public transportation across the nation as efficiently, effectively, and fairly as possible. It's also consistent with the President's Executive Order 13563, which called on Federal agencies to “modify, streamline, expand, or repeal” rules that may be “outmoded, ineffective, insufficient, or excessively burdensome.”

First, FTA is reducing regulations and red tape. FTA will allow project sponsors to bypass a detailed analysis of benefits that are unnecessary to justify a project. And FTA is developing methods that can be used to estimate necessary benefits using simpler approaches. Overall, these changes will significantly reduce the volume and complexity of the paperwork project sponsors have to submit.

That could save taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars every year and help communities benefit from transit projects faster.

High-speed rail stays on track in 2012

High-speed rail has been one of the defining initiatives at the Department of Transportation since President Obama took office in 2009.  His vision for safe, efficient, and convenient high-speed intercity train service is a vision shared by travelers all across the country.  And from coast to coast, 2012 saw many exciting developments on the high-speed rail front.

In California, one of America's most ambitious high-speed rail plans got a boost from dedicated partners at the state and federal levels.  Early in the year, the California High Speed Rail Authority released a revised business plan that lays out a faster, better, and more cost-effective path to building the rail system so critical to the state's economic future.  A few months later, Governor Jerry Brown signed a funding bill that provides nearly $5 billion in state funds for investments in rail infrastructure, which will be matched by $3 billion in federal funding.

DOT's support for California high-speed rail didn't stop there.  The FRA signed a Record of Decision clearing the final technical hurdle for construction on the Merced-Fresno segment, which the California High Speed Rail Authority now expects to break ground on in early 2013.  Additionally, the FRA is responding to President Obama's call to streamline the federal evaluation and permitting process by pledging to finish the environmental review of the Fresno-Bakersfield segment six months early.

The Federal Railroad Administration also helped open the door further for improved passenger rail service in the Midwest.  Just a few weeks ago, the FRA issued two Records of Decision about rail routes between Chicago and St. Louis, making the corridor eligible to compete for future federal funding.  

And passengers traveling between Chicago and St. Louis and Chicago and Detroit are starting to experience the benefits of high-speed rail firsthand: trains can now reach speeds of 110 miles per hour along segments of both of these routes.

MAP-21 makes 2012 a good year for transit

One of the best things about MAP-21, the surface transportation law that President Obama signed earlier this year, is what it does for public transportation. Transit advocates should be cheered that MAP-21 declares: "It is in the interest of the United States, including the economic interest of the United States, to foster the development and revitalization of public transportation systems."

To support that interest, the new law provides a big boost to the Federal Transit Administration's "State Of Good Repair" program. FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff and I have spent a considerable amount of time in communities across the United States, and we've seen first-hand how important it is to reinvest in transit.

So our commitment to bringing transit systems into a state of good repair across the nation really grows out of our awareness of  how great the need is.

And because MAP-21 provides $2.1 billion for State of Good Repair funding and $420 million in FTA's Bus and Bus Facilities formula program, we'll have a greater ability to help transit agencies keep their systems in the kind of condition passengers deserve.

MAP-21 also requires FTA to establish State of Good Repair performance measures and asks transit agencies to develop asset management plans to meet these standards. This will ensure that America’s public transportation is in good working order, whether you’re riding a bus in Portland, Maine, or a streetcar in Portland, Oregon.

Improving the Department of Transportation

Cross-posted courtesy of The Washington Post

Readers might recall that DOT was the most-improved large agency in this year's "Best Places to Work in the Federal Government" rankings. Recently, I spoke with Tom Fox, a guest writer of the Washington Post’s On Leadership section and its Fed Coach blog. Mr. Fox is also the vice president for leadership and innovation at the Partnership for Public Service, which publishes the rankings, and he heads up the Partnership’s Center for Government Leadership.

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When you became secretary in 2009, DOT was ranked last among large agencies in levels of employee satisfaction and commitment. What was your reaction and how did you feel when the agency received recognition for improving so dramatically in 2012?

When I [found out] that DOT was last, I was stunned. I made a commitment that day to do everything I could do to engage people and really change morale and opinions at the department. Four years later, we’ve accomplished a lot. We still have a lot more to do, obviously. But I am really proud of it. It’s not a one-man show by any means. It’s a result of an all-out team effort from a group of people that made a commitment to improve the way people think about the workplace at DOT. This was very focused and comprehensive.

What were some initiatives DOT undertook to turn around employee engagement?

You may not know this, but the majority of our employees are FAA employees. There was no secret around here about how disenchanted National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) workers were for not having a contract for five years. One of our first goals was to reach a contract, which we did within 100 days of my being sworn in. Reaching that goal, and satisfying that number of employees, set us on a course that people understood, that showed that we care about our employees. It felt like it was a very good giant first step.

Two things I think directly impact our employees — we didn’t have a health-care center at headquarters, and we have over 5,000 employees. One of our goals was pretty simple: Establish a health clinic, which we’ve done.

It's not a holiday for everyone; America's freight never stops moving

This weekend, many Americans will be on the road. Whether they're heading toward reunions with family or friends, they'll be sharing the highways with others heading toward similarly warm gatherings of loved ones.

They'll also be sharing the highways with America's truck drivers.

The same truck drivers whose work makes it possible for stores to keep their shelves stocked for last-minute holiday shoppers. The same truck drivers who will be driving throughout the week to ensure that our grocery stores have food and our gas stations have fuel. And the same truck drivers who are on our roads delivering the goods 365 days a year, rain or shine.

As Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator Anne Ferro said, "America's many safe and skilled truck drivers are heroes of our highways, not only for bringing us what we want for this holiday season, but also for all the goods they deliver that we depend on throughout the year."

I couldn't agree more. And I also couldn't agree more with Administrator Ferro's suggestion to the rest of us this holiday season:

"Let’s give these drivers back a gift we can all live with. When driving near a large truck, please keep out of their "no- zones," the areas alongside or behind a truck where the driver can't see your car. Letting them see your vehicle will help all of us stay a little safer this holiday, and every day.”

If you receive a gift from your wish list this holiday season, whether it comes from a brick-and-mortar store, an online retailer with a warehouse, or even the North Pole, chances are that it--or some part of it--spent some time on a truck.

So let's give some thought to Administrator Ferro's advice and thank America's truckers by staying out of the no-zone, respecting the difficulty of handling a big-rig, and giving commercial drivers extra consideration.

For safety and goodness' sake.

Santa flight cleared to great acclaim; NextGen makes mission safer, quieter, more fuel-efficient

We were all children once, and we know how wonderful it is to wake up on Christmas morning and see presents underneath the tree. That's why air traffic controllers, inspectors, and technicians at the Federal Aviation Administration have been working overtime to make sure the sleigh and the flight plan are cleared for Santa's important annual flight.

And today, I'm pleased to let everyone know that Santa One has indeed been cleared for takeoff on Christmas Eve.

"We've been working overtime with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves to make sure his flight plan is in order and Santa One is working properly,” said Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. “We want to make sure Santa has a safe flight around the world, and that the children receive their presents.”

FAA isn't limiting itself to Santa One flight clearance. www.faa.gov/santa also features a set of special gifts for everyone in the form of Santa and aviation-related fun facts that will occupy you and your kids while you patiently count down the days, hours, and minutes until Santa One takes off.

And what could be better than a cleared flight for Santa One? One that is safer, quieter, and more fuel-efficient than ever thanks to NextGen technology.

FRA Records of Decision push Midwest high-speed rail closer to reality

It's been quite a year for passenger rail in the Midwest, and it just got even better. Yesterday, the Federal Railroad Administration issued two Records of Decision that open the door further for improved passenger rail service between Chicago and St. Louis.

In one of the decisions, the FRA selected the Metra Rock Island Corridor as the most efficient route between Joliet and Chicago. And in the other, the FRA chose a consolidated route along 10th Street through Springfield.

With these decisions, required by the National Environmental Policy Act, the Chicago-St. Louis high-speed rail corridor is eligible to compete for future federal funding.

That could mean new trains, better on-time performance, and improved speed, frequency, and reliability along this increasingly popular line. The right upgrades will ultimately reduce travel time between these two important cities to less than four hours.

This represents a major step forward, both for the State of Illinois and the Midwest as a whole. In addition to giving travelers a better, faster rail experience, future enhancements to the Midwest Regional Rail Network will also create jobs and strengthen the region’s manufacturing base.

We've already seen rail manufacturing in Illinois ramping up and adding jobs thanks to increasing demand for passenger rail. These Records of Decision represent a potential boost for Midwestern suppliers of rail materials and equipment and the workers they employ.

Honolulu rail transit a tribute to Senator Inouye and the people of Oahu

On Monday, the people of Hawaii lost a tireless champion, Senator Daniel Inouye. A Medal of Honor awardee for his wartime valor, the first Japanese-American in the U.S. Congress, and a truly bipartisan colleague--Senator Inouye's passing is a loss for all of us.

So it is fitting that, this morning, I joined the Senator's wife Irene and many others to celebrate the signing of a grant agreement to help fund the Honolulu rail transit system. This important project, for which Senator Inouye advocated strongly, will be a valuable part of the Senator's legacy.

 
FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff signs the grant agreement

The funding agreement signed today seals the Federal Transit Administration's commitment to a 20-mile rail line with 21 stations connecting riders to key education, employment, and activity centers in Honolulu.

This new line, Hawaii's first-ever rail transit system, means that thousands of commuters who are forced to sit in traffic on the  H-1 --one of the most congested highways in America-- will finally get some relief. For workers who commute into Honolulu every day from West Oahu, riding rail transit will mean saving more than 30 minutes each way.

'Tis the season...to travel safely

With the holiday season in full swing, safety might not be your first thought. But, when you travel for the holidays, it should be. Whether you plan to fly, drive, or take a bus, we've got some tips to help you get where you're going safely.

For bus travelers, I can't recommend more strongly that you Look Before You Book with our SaferBus app and website from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. FMCSA’s SaferBus app helps travelers consider safety as well as price when selecting a bus company.  Even if you've already purchased a ticket, you want to know your carrier's safety history before you board the bus.

SaferBus offers a user-friendly view of a bus line’s record, including its operating authority, insurance status, and safety performance—all in the palm of your hand or on a single computer screen.

The free app is available for easy download via Apple's iTunes store and links directly to FMCSA’s database with information on more than 46,000 passenger companies. Not ready for the iOS app? All of these resources are available online at www.fmcsa.dot.gov.

 

Our Aviation Consumer Protection Division wants to help you fly right this season, so if you're traveling by air, please visit their Travel Tips & Publications site. There you'll find information for getting the lowest fare, avoiding baggage problems, and reducing the likelihood of other air travel complications.

Guest blogger Maritime Administrator David Matsuda: MARAD vessels complete Sandy relief mission

The Department’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) ships T/S KENNEDY, T/S EMPIRE STATE and SS WRIGHT have served a unique role supporting Hurricane Sandy relief efforts in New York. As their relief mission ends, I’d like to recognize the 120 men and women who served for more than 40 days as crew on these ships.

On Saturday, I was on Staten Island, New York, along with representatives from FEMA and maritime labor unions, to award captains and crews aboard two of the ships with the U.S. Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement. This medal recognizes their efforts to sail these vessels to New York and provide efficient, temporary afloat housing for Hurricane Sandy relief workers.

Administrator Matsuda presents award for participating in the Sandy relief effort

For six weeks, relief workers from all over the country, including many who had never been on a ship, stayed aboard. Galley crews made sure meals were ready starting at 5:30 a.m., so the relief workers could get an early start. And as these workers returned after long days ashore, crews worked to try to provide them at least some comforts, including internet access and even a few holiday decorations.

In all, the three MARAD ships provided more than 37,000 bed-nights and 72,000 meals for disaster relief workers from FEMA, the Red Cross, and other relief organizations. Because of this floating dormitory service, relief workers did not take up local hotel space needed for housing displaced families.

Kennedy at the pier with WRIGHT in the background under the Verrazano Narrows Bridge

Redesigned www.dot.gov draws a crowd...and goes responsive

In October, we launched a redesigned and re-energized www.dot.gov to make it easier for you to find the information you need. The results from the past 60 days show we’ve made very good progress. And the best part? We’re just getting started.

For example, because they know that mobile device use is the future, last week our web team launched a truly responsive design. So now, when you visit our site using a mobile device, you won't just benefit from a page that scales to your smaller screen--instead, you'll see a page that rearranges itself to fit your device. We're all pretty excited about this new development, and I think it's a wonderful holiday gift to everyone who uses their smartphone or tablet to visit www.dot.gov.

Our goals for www.dot.gov are simple:

• To help you find what you need as easily as possible;
• To make the most popular resources more accessible; and
• To arrange our resources in line with how you think about transportation.

Just two months after our launch, our site statistics show that the decisions we made--using public input--are driving real results.

This holiday season, "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over"

It's no secret that I love this season; anyone who's seen my holiday ties knows that. There is so much to celebrate at this time of year. But, because people are out celebrating in greater frequency--and often with alcohol--the holiday season can be an especially dangerous time on our nation’s roadways.

During the holidays, far too many people make the irresponsible and dangerous decision to drive after drinking.

That’s why this holiday season, more than 10,000 officers will be on the streets across the nation to enforce a simple safety message: “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”

Although in 2011 we saw the lowest number of roadway deaths in six decades, we're still stuck with the fact that one in every three highway fatalities last year--9,878 in total--was alcohol-related. And in the last two weeks of December 2011 alone, 395 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes.

Each of these deaths is one too many, and it simply has to stop.

 

DOT makes Best Places to Work top ten, earns honors as most improved large government agency

With DOT's success in the 2012 Best Places to Work rankings, I want to share how proud I am of our hard-earned achievement as the Most Improved Large Government Agency. We are all deeply honored to have that recognition.

And with that improvement, I'm pleased to say that DOT moved into the Best Places To Work 2012 large agency Top 10.

At the Department of Transportation, we work to ensure a safe, efficient, accessible, and reliable transportation system that meets the needs of the American people today and will continue to meet their needs in the future. And we cannot pursue that mission effectively unless the Department’s 57,000 professionals in our 13 sub-agencies are committed to the work they do and the workplace they do it in.

Well, since 2009, DOT has jumped 11 percentage points in the Best Places to Work rankings. This improvement in job satisfaction didn’t just happen. It is the result of a deliberate and coordinated Department-wide effort.

And I do mean "Department-Wide." For example, the Federal Highway Administration made the Agency Subcomponent Top 10 this year, and the Federal Railroad Administration finished in the Top 20. Rounding out our Department-wide success, the Federal Aviation Administration was the fifth most-improved among the 292 sub-agencies.

Volpe Center Innovation Challenge generates transportation solutions

It’s no secret that Americans love competitions with judges. American Idol is in its 12th season, and there are television shows recognizing almost every talent you can think of—dancing, cooking, fashion design, and more. But what happens if your talent is transportation research?

Then we've got just the thing. DOT’s own Volpe Center just concluded its first-ever “Innovation Challenge,” a competition where teams present ideas that help solve major challenges in American transportation.

Judges from Volpe's Innovation Challenge included (from left to right) Jo Strang, FRA Associate Administrator for Railroad Safety; Robert Johns, Volpe Center Director; Gregory Winfree, RITA Acting Administrator; Christopher Bonanti, NHTSA Associate Administrator for Rulemaking; and Tony Fazio, FAA Director of the Office of Accident Investigation and Prevention (not pictured her). Tony participated via video teleconference.

I’ve written about the Volpe Center before. Home to cutting-edge human factors simulator work, award-winning low-cost solutions to safety and security, and much more, the center is a fee-for-service transportation research facility in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and is part of our Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA).

Recognized internationally for its transportation research expertise, Volpe houses a diverse group of talented individuals, with experts in virtually every field, from economists and urban planners to mechanical engineers and computer scientists. The center is truly a multi-disciplinary organization, working to solve multimodal transportation problems.

I-49 designation means opportunity in Missouri

Thanks to the work of previous generations, modernizing transportation in America doesn't always mean starting from scratch. Existing infrastructure often gives us a great springboard to leverage as we work to develop a true 21st century transportation network to support a thriving 21st century economy.

And that's what we've been able to do in Missouri, where the State DOT and local communities have transformed much of US Route 71 into the latest segment of Interstate 49, an important north-south freight highway. Once work in Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana is complete, the uninterrupted I-49 will stretch more than 1,600 miles and will significantly improve freight movement through the central United States from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.

Joplin student journalists Landon Moore and Noah Pinjuv interview FHWA Administrator Victor Mendez

Yesterday, Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez was in Joplin to celebrate the I-49 redesignation. There, he saw how this transformation of Highway 71 is more than just a road project; it's the symbol of a community healing after the devastation of one of the worst tornadoes in US history.  The strength of the Joplin community--torn apart by tragedy 18 months ago--was reaffirmed yesterday at East Joplin Middle School where parents, students, neighbors, local and state officials gathered for the opening of a stronger tie between Joplin and the rest of the state, the nation, and the world.

And in talking about the opportunities opened up by this project, he really hit the nail on the head:

"Every time we open a new section of the Interstate Highway System, we add another link to the incredible network that ties this nation together. That’s very important as we look to create jobs, increase trade and continue the economic recovery that added 146,000 jobs last month and lowered the unemployment rate to the lowest level in four years."

He's exactly right. This transformation has put people to work rebuilding the roadway to interstate standards--including expanded capacity and improved safety features--but in the years to come will strengthen the economy by helping freight move more easily from the Midwest to markets worldwide.

Charlotte Streetcar another step forward in modern transit

This morning, I wrote that, for transportation, there is no time like the present to invest in the future. One city that understands that quite clearly is Charlotte, NC. And today I was delighted to be back in the Queen's City to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Charlotte Streetcar Starter Line.

This streetcar is the first phase of a planned 10-mile line that will expand transit options, spur economic development and improve access to jobs, education and medical facilities in the heart of one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas.

The initial 1.5-mile section of the streetcar line will feature six stops--including a hospital--along a transit corridor that will make it easy for passengers to catch a local transit bus or LYNX light rail. It will also propel Charlotte yet another step forward in its vision of an inter-connected, modern transit system that gets people into, around, and out of the city without needing a car.

Increasing transportation options for residents, students, and commuters means less reliance on oil; it means spending less money; and it means less time stuck in traffic. It also means more jobs and additional investments in business, housing, and retail.

DC-Dulles Silver Line a gold star project by any measure

When it comes to transportation, there is no time like the present to invest in the future. Transportation projects take time to complete, and they endure for generations. Because the impacts of these projects extend so far into the future, the infrastructure choices we make today have huge consequences for our nation’s ability to reduce oil consumption, increase safety, preserve air quality, improve public health, and keep more money in people's wallets.

One project currently under construction that will provide all of those benefits--for residents, commuters, business travelers, and tourists alike--is the DC-to-Dulles Silver Line in Northern Virginia.

The Silver Line is a 23-mile addition to the Washington, DC, regional Metrorail system running from Falls Church, VA, to Dulles International Airport and Virginia's Loudoun County. The extension will serve Tysons Corner, Virginia's largest employment center, and the Reston-Herndon area, the state's second largest employment concentration. And it will provide a one-seat ride from Dulles International Airport to downtown Washington.

Metrorail is not just the Washington area’s metro system. It is America’s metro system. People from every state in the country—and from every corner of the world—use Metro in our capitol city. We need to connect the region's busiest international airport to America’s metro system—and the opportunities that come with it.

United Fantasy Flight volunteers brighten spirits this holiday season

The holiday season is a magical time, filled with food, family, and friends.  It’s also a time for communities to come together and brighten the spirits of those in need.

On Saturday morning, I was excited to once again spread holiday cheer at United Airlines’ annual Fantasy Flight to the North Pole, which took off from Washington Dulles International Airport.

The first Fantasy Flight at Dulles began 22 years ago and helps bring a little holiday magic to seriously ill kids from Children’s Hospice International. 

After checking in at the airport and heading through security, the children and their families boarded a Boeing 777 at Gate D7, took off for a brief flight, and landed at the “North Pole” – a special gate at the airport decked out in holiday decorations and featuring carolers, a band, costumed characters such as the Nationals Presidents, holiday treats, face painting, toys, gifts, and the star of the show, Santa Claus.

It was great to meet some of the children and share a special treat from President Obama – White House M&Ms.

2011 safety numbers show decline in traffic fatalities--but DOT's work continues

This morning, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its annual report on traffic safety in America--and the news was good.

In 2011, highway deaths fell to 32,367 in 2011--the lowest level since 1949, and a nearly 2 percent decrease from 2010. The updated Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data shows 2011 also saw the lowest fatality rate ever recorded, with 1.10 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in 2011, down from 1.11 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in 2010.

These declines are even more impressive when viewed with our overall highway safety gains in recent years. Since 2005, the number of traffic fatalities has declined by 26 percent.

There are many factors behind these record-breaking declines in traffic deaths, but three in particular are worth highlighting: safer cars, safer roads, and safer drivers.  

NHTSA's Five-Star Safety Ratings Program, which measures crash worthiness and rollover safety, means that vehicles are the safest they've ever been.  Infrastructure investments in our nation's highway system are improving crash barriers, installing better signs and lights, and creating safer intersections.  And public awareness and enforcement campaigns like NHTSA's "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" and "Click It or Ticket" are reminding drivers about the importance of safe behaviors behind the wheel.

New "On the Go" tackles questions from The Atlantic Cities

I'm always ready to talk transportation.  So it's no surprise that one of my favorite ongoing projects is our "On the Go" series.  And today, I'm excited to share another episode with you.

This month, we partnered with The Atlantic Cities blog, which is dedicated to exploring innovative ideas and pressing issues facing today's global cities.  And their readers submitted a number of terrific questions about what we're working on here at DOT.

Click play below to hear my answers on high-speed rail, economically disadvantaged women-owned small businesses, and my proudest accomplishments during President Obama's first term.

Want to have your question answered? You can:

• Post on my Facebook page,
• Tweet me using the #q4ray hashtag, or
• Leave a comment here on the blog.

Thanks for tuning in, and keep sending in your feedback.  You never know when you might find yourself featured in an upcoming episode of "On the Go."

America's cities: Transportation innovators

I've wasted no opportunity in the past four years to talk about the short-term benefits--jobs--and the long-term benefits--economic competitiveness--of investing in transportation. And yesterday, I brought that message to the 2012 UIC Urban Forum at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

It was pretty clear I had the advantage of a friendly audience because most of America's cities and urban planners share my belief in the value of infrastructure investments.

What I appreciate even more than that shared belief, however, is how our cities have taken the transportation ball and run with it. From Denver's Union Station project and light rail development to DC's Capital Bikeshare, cities across the nation have proven themselves to be champion innovators--moving people faster and more reliably, creating jobs, and paving the way for future economic growth.

We need look no further than our host city's ambitious Chicago Infrastructure Trust for proof that--faced with concern about the availability of resources--cities are taking bold steps to help secure their future.

And DOT is ready to partner with these innovators through a variety of programs that reward this kind of creative planning.

Bonding Education Program helps businesses across US expand to the next level

With cold weather coming on, road work in Alaska will probably be slowing down for another long winter. But that doesn’t mean our 49th State’s infrastructure businesses will be taking it easy.

For Alaska’s small and disadvantaged businesses, next week brings the opportunity to step up to the next level through a Bonding Education Program (BEP) from DOT's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU).

Bonding Education Program participants at a Construction Accounting Workshop.

Bonding opens the door for businesses to expand. Without bonding, a small business looking for work must rely on a prime contractor. Once bonded, that business can compete directly for work. It's an important step toward growth and independent access to bigger and better contracts.

But getting bonded isn't easy. That's why, since 2010, OSDBU has been helping businesses learn the ins-and-outs of the bonding process.

Small business owners at a BEP event.

The BEP is the first of its kind at DOT and helps small businesses obtain and build bonding capacity by partnering with the Surety and Fidelity Association of America. The BEP has been established in 26 cities since 2010 and plans have been made to expand the program to at least 20 more cities in 2013. More than $200 million in aggregate bonding capacity for BEP participants has been obtained thus far.

In fact, the OSDBU team is finishing up a Bonding Education Program in Sacramento today. Sessions in Portland, OR, and Houston also ended recently.

And the program is making a difference to our nation’s job creators.

Jim Sulkowski, representing the National Association of Surety Bond Producers, explains the
bonding process to BEP participants during orientation.

DOT takes further steps to enhance transit on tribal lands

Since I took this job, the Department of Transportation has made great progress developing infrastructure on tribal lands. The Obama Administration has listened intently over the last four years to the transportation concerns of tribal leaders, and today we've taken another big step forward.

At the White House Tribal Nations Conference yesterday, we announced that 72 American Indian and Alaska Native tribes will receive a total of $15.5 million to enhance local public transit service on tribal lands.

President Obama returns to the White House after the Tribal Nations Conference.
Photo courtesy Pete Souza, White House.

Transportation is not simply how we get from one point to another—it’s how we connect to opportunity.

That is especially true in Indian Country, where a rebuilt road or a new transit system can be the difference between a child going to school or not—or the difference between a tribal elder going to the doctor or not. And no one knows better than America's Tribal leaders that transportation is the key to accessing jobs.

Today's grants--from the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Tribal Transit Program--will enable tribal governments to continue providing the critical transit services that thousands depend on every day, and in some cases to plan for future transit as well.