The legislation, “Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century, MAP-21,” funds programs at current levels and accommodates for inflation, providing $339.2 billion over six years and averaging $56.5 billion annually. Highlights include eliminating earmarks, consolidating programs, expediting project delivery and expanding the Transportation Innovation and Finance Act program.
The new law, which becomes effective on January 1, 2012, makes it illegal to text or talk on a hand-held cell phone while driving. Violators face a fine of up to $100 for the first offense; up to $200 for the second offense; and up to $250 for the third offense.
Project includes the installation of an advanced battery storage system by Viridity Energy that will capture and deploy power from the trains' regenerative braking.
Many policy makers are looking to various proposals to involve private capital to close the growing gap between the available tax revenues — especially at the federal level, but also, state and local taxes dedicated to transit — and what is needed, especially to maintain rail and bus systems adequately.
Taking a proactive approach to potential rail attacks, agencies such as Amtrak and L.A. Metro have been fortifying their resources and outreach programs for years. As a result, they were ready and able to help riders feel safe when recent terrorist threats loomed.