Introduction
When President Eisenhower signed the Interstate Highways and Defense Act in 1956, it turned out to be a transformational moment in the nation’s history. It provided the infrastructure backbone of a national network that would sustain the economy for more than half a century. That network included not just the Interstate, but other highways, streets and roads, intercity and urban rail, and bus systems as well. Many believe that was the last time the United States had a unifying national vision for transportation.
The vision behind the Interstate System was focused and succinct: "to connect principal metropolitan areas, cities, and industrial centers, serve national defense, and connect with Canada and Mexico." The success of that vision surpassed all expectations, making the United States a world leader in economic prosperity and quality of life. But sustaining that world position in the changing and complex world we live in today requires a new vision for our transportation system.
That question was the driving force behind AASHTO’s initiative that brought together top experts from business, construction, state and local governments, and academia to focus on what is possible, what is probable and what is preferred. The decisions that we as a nation make within the next few years will determine what kind of future our grandchildren will inherit.
The following recommendations are provided for the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, and ultimately for Congress and other elected officials in whose hands these decisions lie.
What follows is the description of a “conceptual plan” which ensures that our surface transportation system will meet America’s needs, and a transportation “vision” for our future which describes how we can meet those needs in ways that create a newer, freer, stronger, more competitive, safer, and better America. Finally, we outline recommendations on how this can all be funded.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the many organizations and individuals who took part in developing this conceptual plan. May it serve as a guide to solving today’s challenges and preparing tomorrow’s goals.
John Horsley
Executive Director
