A modest tax increase is at least better than a small program, which is what we are facing if the no-tax, sequester, governing-by-created-crisis madness continues to bleed a program that used to have bipartisan support.

Although Congress just enacted a new transportation bill, the next one will soon need to be debated.

In July, Congress passed a new two-year bill – MAP-21. Highlights contained include an expanded TIFIA program as well as streamlined New Starts and project delivery processes.

Title: Deputy Administrator Organization: Federal Railroad Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation City: Washington, D.C.

Cliff Henke, a contributing editor to METRO, is senior analyst at PB. His views herein are solely his own.

This crop of conservatives simply doesn't believe the federal government has a role in developing the infrastructure we need to stay competitive in the global economy.

Ridership potential is the number one factor in determining if a corridor is suitable for investment, according to a new study. It proposes that the federal government prioritize investments where the potential for ridership demand is greatest.

The responsibility of government to enforce public rights of way and ensure a well functioning marketplace was not questioned in America's founding. One of President George Washington's first acts was to plan and design the National Road.

Cliff Henke, a contributing editor to METRO, is senior analyst at PB. His views herein are solely his own.

Many believe that the president will put a 'TIGER-like' program in his surface transportation authorization proposal. Given the urgent need for investment out there, his proposal will come not a second too soon.