Science Policy
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Congress Plans Updates for Aging Transportation Infrastructure Capitalizing on materials technology is a key aspect of meeting United States transportation needs and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, according to some members of Congress. As the U.S. transportation infrastructure ages and the effects of carbon emissions become clearer, Representatives are asking Congress to consider legislation that would update the country’s surface transportation system to meet the needs of the 21st century. During the first half of 2008, bills to revitalize public transportation systems and incorporate modern techniques like filtration systems and pervious pavement have made progress in the House of Representatives, and both the House and the Senate have held hearings on related matters. Two such bills have been passed by the House of Representatives and referred to the Senate, HR 6003: The Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 Over five years, this bill would authorize over $14 billion for Amtrak grants, state intercity passenger grants, and highspeed rail. An advisory board charged with recommending research, technology, and implementation activities would determine the investment priorities. (This bill has also been passed by the Senate and sent to the President.)
HR 6052: Saving Energy through Public Transportation Act of 2008 This bill aims to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil by promoting public transportation. It authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants for operating costs and facilities used in public transportation, and equipment or facilities that increase fuel efficiency. (This bill has been referred to the Senate.) Another bill has been approved by the House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology and referred to the full House,
HR 5161: The Green Transportation Infrastructure Research and Technology Transfer Act This bill would invest in university programs focused on the research and development of green transportation infrastructure and technology transfer activities. In particular, it aims to reduce groundwater contamination caused by runoff from roads and parking lots. According to Representative David Wu (Dem-Ore.), Chair of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation, laboratories around
the country have been developing innovative materials and technologies that reduce the energy cost of transportation infrastructure and promote sustainability. “The potential benefits of these innovative materials and technologies are impressive,” Wu said in the opening statement of a hearing on sustainable, energy-efficient transportation infrastructure held by the subcommittee. “What’s even more striking is that many of the technologies we need to bring about these fuel savings already exist.” In many cases, state and local governments have been slow to adopt technologies that could affect the sustainability and condition of the U.S. transportation infrastructure, like high performance paving materials that reduce friction and nee
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