Sunday, December 14, 2008

Porcari: System Preservation Should Come First

MDOT Secretary John Porcari is making clear that Maryland's share of the federal infrastructure stimulus package will be headed in large part to system preservation. Following is his comment on the issue to the National Journal's Transportation Blog:

For an economic recovery plan to be effecitive, it must move quickly to first preserve the jobs that remain, and hopefully create more jobs. This argues for two approaches: 1) Utilize existing federal programs and formulas, and; 2) focus on system preservation projects.

The existing federal programs and formulas are well known and understood (though not necessarily fair to those of us that are "donor" states). Getting projects out the door is the highest priority, and this is the fastest way to do it. And focusing on system preservation-- "fix it first"-- is the right priority, and avoids a state versus local (or regional) fight.

In Maryland, the project planning process begins with local priority lists. We have a collabrative process in determining project priorities. In the case of system preservation projects, these priorities are straightforward. They are then approved through the Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), so they have already had extensive public input.

The reality is that most, if not all, of the states have more system preservation projects today than are likely to be funded. These investments in bridges, rail transit, highway rebuildng and bus replacement will preserve and create jobs not just in our states, but in regions where the materials, vehicles and supplies are produced.
The Secretary's thinking is in line with other transportation experts across the country. Rebuilding bridges, resurfacing highways and purchasing new rail cars and buses are non-controversial activities that are both necessary and can be started immediately. This is good news for my building trades brothers in the Laborers and Operating Engineers unions as well as businesses and commuters.

The Sun is reporting that MDOT has sent a project list to the state's Congressional delegation. We have asked for a copy of that list and will post it when we receive it.