FHWA's Peters testifies on growing threat of traffic congestion

Federal Highway Administrator Mary E. Peters testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure's Subcommittee on Highways and Transit on the growing threat of traffic congestion to the nation's economy and quality of life. One of the major reasons for increased traffic congestion is that the system has not kept pace with the growing demands placed on it, said Peters. From 1980 to 2000 highway travel increased 80% and the number of drivers increased by 30%, while highway mileage increased only 2%. Peters said the U.S. Department of Transportation's goal is to provide the American people with a transportation system that is safe, secure and efficient. To enhance the operation of highways, Peters called for increased coordination among agencies responsible for roadway operations, including traffic, public safety and emergency response agencies.