STATES STEP IN TO FILL FINANCING VOID WHILE FEDERAL LAWMAKERS STRUGGLE

Despite the lack of reauthorization legislation that would succeed the Transportation Equity Act of the 21st Century (TEA 21), transportation engineers and contractors remain optimistic that a stable funding source for highway, bridge, transit, and other transportation projects will be set in place. The lack of a long-term bill has had a negative impact on the amount of design and construction work that state departments of transportation (DOTs) can award. While some state DOTs are remaining in a waiting mode, others have already moved forward with their own initiatives such as increasing fuel taxes and establishing toll authorities. The article also notes that growth has continued within the mass transit, airport, and ports sectors, and progress design and construction work has been significant. The article includes tables indicating: Top 50 in Transportation; Top 25 in Bridges; Top 15 in Marine and Port Facilities; Top 25 in Airports; Top 25 in Highways; and Top 25 in Mass Transit and Rail