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M/T Florida a welcome addition to US-flag fleet

Today a new vessel, the Motor/Tanker Florida, was christened into the U.S.-flag tanker fleet.

This addition represents the maritime industry’s response to the predicted growth in the domestic oil market--growth that will ripple up and down the supply chain bringing more jobs to American workers, including shipbuilders and mariners.

For example, at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, where the M/T Florida was built, they are already hard at work on two more tankers due to hit American waters in 2014. That's on top of the M/T Pennsylvania that was christened in September. With the delivery of M/T Florida, Aker has completed construction of 18 ships in the last 10 years.

In fact, the shipyard has more than tripled its workforce since April 2011, from 330 to more than 1000 today. Nearly 50 of those new workers are apprentices enrolled in a MARAD-supported shipbuilders training program.

The M/T Florida was built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard for Crowley Maritime and will operate under the Jones Act, a law requiring that ships operating between two U.S. ports be built in America, crewed by American mariners, and owned by American companies.

As the newest vessel in the U.S.-flag fleet, the M/T Florida demonstrates the importance of the maritime industry and U.S. mariners to our nation’s economy as well as our national defense. The more effectively U.S. shippers can move goods to and from American ports, the better U.S. businesses can compete around the globe.

The Obama Administration has made the maritime industry a top priority and has provided historic levels of funding to improve ports and shipyards across the nation.

Nina Glende Johnsen, wife of Aker Shipyard CEO Kristian Rokk, christens the M/T Florida.

One of America's grandest terminals turns 100

It's a beauty on the outside, a beauty on the inside, and it has that clock. But transportation fans know its beauty isn’t skin deep--it extends all the way to to its well-engineered tracks and platforms.

I'm writing, of course, about New York City's Grand Central Terminal, which is celebrating its 100th birthday this week. The station master of the old terminal--the first one was built in 1871--received his set of keys to the newly built transportation palace on February 1, 1913.  A few hours later, at midnight on February 2, the station welcomed its first train service and has been busy ever since.

In the 100 years that have passed since then, millions of Americans have passed through Grand Central's exquisite Main Concourse, have met friends and family by the famous clock--clad in opal on all four sides--that stands over the information booth, and have marveled at the 125-foot ceiling with its expansive celestial mural. We have stood on 42nd Street, gazing at the terminal's beautiful facade with its massive sculptures and its outside clock that features the world's largest example of Tiffany glass.

And we have ridden its trains. Served now by the MTA's Metro-North Railway, the busiest commuter railroad in the United States, Grand Central features nearly 300 departures every weekday. Those trains add up, too. The 100-year-old station serves hundreds of thousands of commuters daily and tens of millions annually.

FTA continues to cut red tape, streamline processes

I recently wrote about the big step that the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has taken to streamline its major capital construction program. This new rule saves taxpayers time and money by moving promising transit projects through the New Starts/Small Starts program more quickly and with an improved evaluation process. But even with the new rule, FTA continues looking for ways to cut red tape.

And today, the FTA announced important revisions to its Environmental Review Process--the first review of its kind in 25 years.

All transit projects seeking Federal funds have to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act or NEPA. NEPA is a very important law that makes sure planned transit projects don't adversely affect the local environment. But sometimes NEPA--while critically important--can make it difficult to get critical transit work moving very quickly.

The changes announced today will make the necessary environmental review process more efficient, while still ensuring that the environment and public heath are kept safe from harm. With these new changes, for example, a transit project planned for development in an existing transportation right-of-way would qualify for a less burdensome environmental review process than one that breaks all-new ground.

As FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff said, "These common-sense changes will allow communities to move projects from the drawing board to construction more quickly than in the past while making sure that we don’t compromise on protecting the environment.”

USMMA gets boost with experienced Deputy Superintendent

For those of you who follow the Fast Lane, it's no secret that I am proud of the midshipmen and staff at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY, and I enthusiastically support the Academy's efforts to train and prepare America's next generation of merchant mariners.

I'm also eager to share good news about all that's happening at Kings Point. And on Monday, in front of the entire USMMA student body, Deputy Secretary of Transportation John Porcari commissioned Rear Admiral Susan Dunlap into the United States Maritime Service in preparation for her new role as the Academy's Deputy Superintendent.

Deputy Secretary John Porcari and Superintendent James Helis commission RADM Susan Dunlap
as Maritime Administrator David Matsuda looks on; photo credit: M/N Lt. Michael Pluhowski 1/c, USMMA

RADM Dunlap joined the Academy family, where she will work with Superintendent Dr. James Helis to continue the Kings Point tradition of developing fine young maritime professionals.

I was happy to hear that RADM Dunlap was commissioned at a town hall meeting where the faculty, staff, and students were also thanked for their efforts in developing the Academy’s strategic plan.  You see, the new Deputy Superintendent will be a driving force behind implementing that plan as well as managing the critical capital improvements needed to modernize Kings Point.

Improving the academy and providing midshipmen the tools and resources they need is a priority here at DOT. A top-notch education for America’s merchant mariners is as critical for our economy as it is for our national security.

I will not serve a second term; but we have more work to do

I want Fast Lane readers to be among the first to know that I will not serve a second term as Secretary of Transportation.

One of the best things about the four years that I have served in this office is the ability to share the achievements of DOT with readers of this blog. It's no secret that I value the work we do here, and it has been a pleasure to demonstrate that twice daily on the Fast Lane.

Below, readers will find the message I sent this morning to the folks at DOT. But I also want to direct your attention to a document we've prepared that lists DOT Accomplishments for the past four years.

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“I have let President Obama know that I will not serve a second term as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation.  It has been an honor and a privilege to lead the Department, and I am grateful to President Obama for giving me such an extraordinary opportunity.  I plan to stay on until my successor is confirmed to ensure a smooth transition for the Department and all the important work we still have to do.

As I look back on the past four years, I am proud of what we have accomplished together in so many important areas.  But what I am most proud of is the DOT team. You exemplify the best of public service, and I truly appreciate all that you have done to make America better, to make your communities better, and to make DOT better.

Our achievements are significant.  We have put safety front and center with the Distracted Driving Initiative and a rule to combat pilot fatigue that was decades in the making.  We have made great progress in improving the safety of our transit systems, pipelines, and highways, and in reducing roadway fatalities to historic lows.  We have strengthened consumer protections with new regulations on buses, trucks, and airlines.

We helped jumpstart the economy and put our fellow Americans back to work with $48 billion in transportation funding from the American Recovery and Investment Act of 2009, and awarded over $3.1 billion in TIGER grants to 218 transportation projects across the Nation.  We have made unprecedented investments in our nation’s ports.  And we have put aviation on a sounder footing with the FAA reauthorization, and secured funding in the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act to help States build and repair their roads, bridges and transit systems.

And to further secure our future, we have taken transportation into the 21st century with CAFE Standards, NextGen, and our investments in passenger and High-Speed Rail.  What’s more, we have provided the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy with the funding and leadership it needs to prepare a new generation of midshipmen to meet our country’s rapidly-evolving defense and maritime transportation needs.

Closer to home, we also have made great strides.  In December, the DOT was recognized as the most improved agency in the entire Federal government in the 2012 “Best Places to Work” rankings published by the Partnership of Public Service.  Even more impressive, DOT was ranked 9th out of the 19 largest agencies in the government.

Each of these remarkable accomplishments is a tribute your hard work, creativity, commitment to excellence, and most of all, your dedication to our country.  DOT is fortunate to have such an extraordinary group of public servants.  I look forward to continuing to work with all of you as the selection and confirmation process of the next transportation secretary moves forward.  Now is not the time to let up - we still have a number of critical safety goals to accomplish and still more work to do on the implementation of MAP-21.  

I’ve told President Obama, and I’ve told many of you, that this is the best job I’ve ever had.  I’m grateful to have the opportunity to work with all of you and I’m confident that DOT will continue to achieve great things in the future.

Thank you, and God bless you.”

Loyola Streetcar a winner for New Orleans

While coaches Jim and John Harbaugh are putting the final touches on their game plans for this Sunday's Super Bowl, the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority has just completed a game-changer of their own: the Loyola Avenue - Union Passenger Terminal Streetcar line. The new line opened today and features a stop at Loyola and Poydras, which will deliver football fans and other riders just around the corner from the Superdome.

The Loyola Streetcar really demonstrates the Obama Administration's commitment to creating jobs, improving mobility, increasing economic development, and boosting sustainability.

From the moment he took office, President Obama worked tirelessly to get the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) passed by Congress. One of the signature features of the Recovery Act for DOT was the TIGER program--Transportation Investments Generating Economic Recovery. And one of the organizations that received funding in our first round of TIGER grants was the New Orleans RTA for construction of the Loyola Streetcar.

And since then, we have faithfully kept readers informed of the new line's progress from grant agreement to groundbreaking. So I was particularly happy to be in New Orleans today with Congressman Cedric Richmond, Mayor Mitch Landrieu, Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff, and others to celebrate the Loyola Streetcar's grand opening.

Georgia mayors working together to keep the Peach State moving

Last week, I wrote about the terrific partnership DOT has enjoyed with America's mayors. Readers might recall that throughout the past four years, DOT has also put a great deal of emphasis on regional partnerships where state, county, and municipal leaders come together for a common purpose.

Well, this morning I had the pleasure of acknowledging mayors and regional partnerships at the Georgia Municipal Association Mayors' Day Conference in Atlanta.

Because municipal leaders in Georgia have been able to agree on a set of priorities, the Obama Administration has been able to make key investments in the state's transportation infrastructure. Altogether, DOT has invested nearly $4.5 billion in Georgia’s highways and $865 million in Georgia’s transit systems since 2009.

We started with the Recovery Act, which financed 398 transportation projects in Georgia—rebuilding 28 Georgia bridges and improving almost 1,400 miles of Georgia roads. And we provided $148 million to improve Georgia’s transit systems.

Odometer fraud investigation another key part of the NHTSA safety mission

When you're thinking about buying a used car or truck, one of the first questions a smart consumer asks is, "How many miles does it have on it?"

And that's why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Office of Odometer Fraud Investigations works closely with the Department of Justice to protect consumers from the threat altered odometers pose to their wallets...and their safety.

Buyers check the odometer to learn what they can about a vehicle's history. We have come to trust the odometer as an authoritative window into what we can expect from a vehicle, but sometimes an unscrupulous seller abuses that trust.

Last week for example--thanks to an OFI investigation--a federal grand jury in Philadelphia unsealed an indictment charging two individuals from Florida with making false odometer statements, securities fraud, and conspiracy. According to the indictment, as early as 2004, the defendants devised a scheme to buy high-mileage vehicles, alter the odometer readings, and resell them in Pennsylvania. Through at least 2010, they allegedly defrauded the buyers of approximately 247 vehicles.

The indictment claims that in some instances, the true mileage of the vehicle was greater than 100,000 miles more than what the title indicated.

Hazmat emergency? There’s an app for that; PHMSA makes first responders’ Emergency Response Guidebook available as free mobile app

When we think about transportation, many of us think about the passenger vehicles we ride in— buses, cars, airplanes, and trains. But at the Department of Transportation, we also oversee the safe shipment of important goods like gasoline and diesel, hazardous materials that travel across the country in a network of pipelines before powering the vehicles we use to get where we need to go.

Each day, there are nearly 1 million hazmat shipments across America. The safety record for these shipments is good, but unfortunately, accidents occasionally happen. And when they do, the first 30 minutes are critical for quickly and safely containing hazardous materials.

That’s why our Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration distributes an updated Emergency Response Guidebook to our nation’s first responders every four years. And this year, we’re releasing free apps for iPhone and Android, making the ERG more accessible than it’s ever been.

The free app— which is geared for first responders—can be downloaded from iTunes and Google Play. If you want to learn more about how to use the ERG, please tune into the instructional video here. 

Last May, PHMSA, distributed more than 2 million free hardcopies of the 2012 Emergency Response Guidebook to firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and law enforcement officers. The mobile app will put this on-the-scene resource in the hands of even more first responders, making it easier for them to quickly look up the information they need, even at night when a hardcopy could be tough to read.

Serving those who served us; FMCSA cuts red tape for veterans

Nearly two years ago, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued a rule that makes it easier for veterans to take the first step toward getting a job as a professional truck or bus driver. The FMCSA rule allows veterans with two years of experience safely driving a commercial motor vehicle in the military to apply for a civilian commercial driver’s license. To obtain a civilian CDL, qualifying veterans are only required to pass a written test.

Since we issued this rule, 44 states have either adopted the veterans provision or are in the process of adopting it. Most recently, the State of Maryland officially joined those ranks this month.

FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro with Maryland Lt. Governor Anthony Brown

By waiving the driver skills test for veterans, the Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles is offering veterans a quicker route to getting their commercial drivers’ licenses, a key step in the transition to civilian careers.

High Speed Rail kicks off 2013 with Key Milestones

Last week, even before President Obama reminded us in his inaugural address of the importance of railroads to the American economy, two events marked a significant step forward in U.S. high-speed rail.

First, on Wednesday,  the California High Speed Rail Authority announced that by the end of the week the state would receive final sealed bids for the first leg of the Golden State's high-speed rail project. On the following day, Amtrak and the California High-Speed Rail Authority jointly issued a "Request For Information" seeking to purchase high-speed rail locomotives and passenger cars currently being manufactured and in commercial service that are capable of operating safely at speeds up to 220 mph.

True to the CaHSRA announcement, on Friday five major firms submitted their final bids to build the first 29 miles of high speed train track in California's Central Valley. This brings the state's largest infrastructure undertaking in history one step closer to breaking ground later this year. And that means President Obama's vision of high speed rail in America is one step closer to reality.

Also last week, the state gave the CaHSRA permission to begin acquiring the necessary land for the Central Valley line, and that's even more good news. Given the increasing number of passengers on Amtrak routes in the Central Valley--up 6.4 percent in Bakersfield and 5.9 percent in Fresno for 2012--construction can't start soon enough.

CaHSRA CEO Jeff MOrales, FRA Administrator Joseph Szabo, and Amtrak President Joe Boardman
Photo credit: Kitty Felde/KPCC

America's mayors getting the job done

Readers of the Fast Lane will recall that last Friday I returned to the Motor City to announce a big step forward in federal support for greater Detroit's M-1 Rail project. As significant as that announcement is for the people and businesses of the metropolitan Detroit region, it's also important to remember that it is just the latest sign of the Obama Administration's support for America's cities.

In fact, later that same day, I returned to Washington, DC, to speak to the Transportation and Communications Committee of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. And although we talked about many specifics--including how the new surface transportation law affects our cities, innovative transportation project financing, and transit safety--my primary message was one of partnership.

For the past four years, we at DOT have enjoyed effective partnerships at many levels that have allowed us to improve our nation's infrastructure and transportation safety while also putting thousands of men and women back to work. Whether it's with State DOTs, independent safety organizations, or other federal agencies, teaming up with others has allowed us to do our job that much better.

And through these four years, we have had no better partners than America's mayors.

I've been to more than 200 communities in the United States, and I can assure you that our mayors are getting the job done. 

They have been strong advocates--like Philadelphia's Michael Nutter--for improving existing transportation infrastructure. They have been bold--like Sacramento's Kevin Johnson--proposing dramatic extensions of existing infrastructure. They have been persistent--like Detroit's Dave Bing--steadfastly championing big ideas, building critical momentum and public-private support. They have been visionary--like Dubuque's Roy Buol--looking at dormant factories and mills and seeing a vibrant, livable future. They have been forward thinking--like Tulsa's Dewey Bartlett--recognizing the value of inland ports to our economic and environmental future.

Port of Los Angeles railyard upgrades to speed movement of goods, cut congestion and emissions

The U.S. is home to more than 300 ports, and each is a vital piece of our national economy. It’s important that they operate both efficiently and competitively; that’s why I’m excited to see the Port of Los Angeles’ West Basin Railyard beginning construction. 

When this project is completed, the port will be able to move products from ships onto rail cars within the port, reducing the region’s need for trucks. That means fewer trucks on local streets, which reduces traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions for the community.

Perhaps most importantly, the railway construction will contribute more than 1000 jobs to our steadily growing economy.

The West Basin Railyard will improve the connection between the Port and the Alameda Corridor, a rail line that carries about 15 percent of all waterborne containers entering or leaving the United States.

The West Basin Railyard project will construct an intermodal railyard, which includes staging and storage tracks to connect on-dock railyards with the Alameda Corridor. It will also include a railyard for the short-line railroad serving Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe, the Port of Los Angeles, and the Port of Long Beach.

The project will also remove two at-grade rail-highway crossings, relieving congestion.

Thanks, in part, to $16 million in TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant funding, the construction of this railyard will create jobs and provide lasting infrastructure improvement to help speed the movement of goods into and out of the busy Port of Los Angeles.

2013 National Day of Service; DOT turns out in force

This morning, I want to thank the millions of Americans who turned out last Saturday for the 2013 Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service.

Just as yesterday's Presidential Inauguration is a testament to our enduring democracy, the commitment to service demonstrated over the weekend is a testament to the enduring values of our people.  As President Obama has said, “America has never been about what can be done for us; it's about what can be done by us together.”

I also want to thank, in particular, the great folks here at DOT and their families for volunteering their time and energy to service projects in the DC area and across the country.

Whether it was cutting back invasive plants with the Rock Creek Conservancy as many of us did--including Will Farber, who at just 1 month old was DOT's youngest volunteer--or putting together care packages for American servicemen and women in Afghanistan--as Deputy St. Lawrence Seaway Administrator Craig Middlebrook and his son Henry did--the DOT team has made me proud yet again.

Further north, many of the midshipmen from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy took part in a clean-up at Jones Beach State Park organized by For The Shore as part of the continued response to Hurricane Sandy.

Also on Saturday's Day of Service, Deputy Secretary John Porcari and I had a chance to spend
some time with DOT safety champions Vince and Larry

Detroit area's M-1 streetcar line gets a big green light

For many in the Metropolitan Detroit region, the M-1 Rail project has been a long time coming. Well, I'm happy to say that--after decades of hard work by many, many people--today is the day they've been waiting for.

I was in Detroit earlier this week for the 2013 Auto Show, and I saw the car industry's comeback there firsthand. And today I went back to help the city of Detroit launch a comeback of its own with the announcement of a $25 million commitment from DOT to support construction of the long-awaited streetcar line.

The 3.3 mile streetcar line along historic Woodward Avenue is expected to include 11 stations, with connections to Campus Martius, Comerica Park (home of the Detroit Tigers), the Detroit Medical Center area, and Wayne State University. It will put residents in touch with thousands of local jobs, education, medical care, and other destinations for residents in the Detroit metro area. It will also help them save money on gas.

When we launched our TIGER program in 2009, I said that good transportation projects need good partnerships. Whether it's an effort between regional jurisdictions or collaboration between public and private organizations, a strong partnership can more easily mobilize the resources needed to get big things done and deliver benefits to the community.

I applaud Michigan’s leaders for doing exactly that.

First, a coalition of private-sector philanthropic and business leaders came together and committed more than $100 million toward construction and operation of the $137 million project. Now, the State of Michigan has created a Regional Transportation Authority that connects the city of Detroit with Wayne, Macomb, Oakland, and Washtenaw Counties. The M-1 brings both of these coalitions together and also includes the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Southeastern Michigan Council of Governments.

This is the kind of broad-based partnership we need to build the 21st century infrastructure people demand.

Everywhere I travel in the U.S., people tell me they need more transportation options. Transit systems like the M-1 are a lifeline for hardworking Americans.

Today’s announcement allows the M-1 Rail project to move forward immediately using a $25 million TIGER grant previously awarded for transit in Detroit.  We also announced an additional $6.5 million in FTA planning funds available from prior fiscal years to help Michigan develop a bus rapid transit network to further expand transit options connecting downtown Detroit with its suburbs and key destinations in the region.

In addition to helping people get around more easily, the M-1 will also create jobs, spur economic growth, and revitalize Woodward Avenue. As Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff said, "The M-1 Rail project will truly be a catalyst for bringing new jobs, employers, retailers, and attractions into downtown, Midtown, and the New Center area."

This is a very important step forward—for Detroit today and for future generations.

Leaders like Michigan Governor Snyder, Detroit Mayor Bing, U.S. Senator Carl Levin, and Congressman John Dingell understand that although Detroit is the Motor City, it nonetheless needs better public transportation.

We look forward to continuing to work with area leaders who have the vision and commitment to make Detroit a model for livability and progress.

2013 Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service: How will you serve?

My family and Deputy Secretary John Porcari's family serving in Rock Creek Park;
stay tuned to the Fast Lane for more on DOT service activities

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'"

And each year, Americans across the country answer that question by coming together on the King Holiday to serve their neighbors and communities. The MLK Day of Service is a part of United We Serve, the President's national call-to-service initiative. It asks Americans from all walks of life to work together and give something back to their community.

The DOT family has participated annually in this celebration of Dr. King's legacy, and we'll be pitching in again this year. However, because this year's Day of Service corresponds with our Presidential Inauguration, the Obama Administration is making a special call for a spectacular turnout of volunteers--not just in Washington, DC, but nationwide.

President Obama believes that service should be a lifelong commitment—whether it's at the school, community, city, state, or national level. And because the President thinks that,  "We are better together," he and his family are continuing the tradition they started four years ago with a National Day of Service on January 19th, 2013.

Today, Americans are volunteering in increasing numbers, and interest in national service and civic participation continues to grow. Building on this momentum, we encourage all Americans to serve on MLK Day and long after the Inauguration. As President Obama has said, “America's never been about what can be done for us; it's about what can be done by us together.”

And to make it easier to find a service opportunity, the 2013 Presidential Inauguration Committee has a convenient one-stop online site to help. Just plug in the zip code where you want to lend a hand, and let the National Day of Service search tool do the rest.

I'll be serving with my family and other volunteers this Saturday. I hope you'll join us in service wherever it's convenient for you.

Need some motivation to get online and find a service opportunity near you? Remember Dr. King's words: "Everyone can be great...because anyone can serve."

DOT leaders talk MAP-21 at TRB

This morning, I want to take the opportunity to thank the many DOT professionals who have been on panels, delivered talks and papers, and worked with thousands of transportation stakeholders this week at the 2013 Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting.

Yesterday's panel discussion of MAP-21, the new surface transportation law, is one example of DOT leaders sharing their expertise with the transportation community.

DOT Undersecretary for Policy Polly Trottenberg at TRB

The MAP-21 panel, led by our newly sworn-in Undersecretary for Policy, Polly Trottenberg, drew a packed house. It's clear that the transportation community understands that MAP-21 signals a new era for all of us, and the panelists--Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez, Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Management and Budget Sylvia Garcia, and NHTSA Senior Associate Administrator Brian McLaughlin--did a great job explaining the changes this era brings.

And there is plenty of good news to share.

First, on the safety front, MAP-21 gives the FTA long-awaited oversight authority for transit safety. As Administrator Rogoff said, "For years, we asked for the ability to protect America's transit riders and give them the confidence a national set of safety standards would mean. And now that Congress has given it to us, we will absolutely live up to this responsibility."

Also in safety, Associate Administrator McLaughlin talked about the grants MAP-21 makes available to NHTSA to support efforts to end distracted driving. This new program makes available approximately $17.5 million in fiscal year 2013 to states that have laws banning distracted driving. Congress has also authorized an additional $5 million for NHTSA to develop paid advertising to support state enforcement of laws against distracted driving.

To support infrastructure efforts and job creation, MAP-21 offers a significant boost to our TIFIA financing and credit assistance program. The $1.75 billion Congress has made available for TIFIA can lead to $17 billion in loans for needed transportation projects around the country. And those loans can then lead to billions more in private sector and other investments.

At the 2013 TRB Chairman's Lunch, DOT message is "Safety first"

When you're talking to a hall filled with transportation professionals, it's tempting to talk about infrastructure—the importance of researching it, financing it, building it, and maintaining it. And when I addressed the TRB Chairman's Lunch earlier today, I made the case that, over the last four years, the Obama Administration has made unprecedented investments in our nation’s transportation system.

But, as I’ve said many times before, safety is DOT's number one priority. And as hard as we've worked to renew America's transportation infrastructure, we've worked even harder to ensure that everyone who uses that infrastructure can get where they're going as safely as possible.

So today at TRB, I also made a point of giving DOT’s safety efforts their due.

In 2011, the nation saw the lowest number of deaths on our nation’s highways since 1949 --that’s the lowest rate ever recorded. And that is due to three factors: safer vehicles, improved safety awareness among drivers, and stronger enforcement.

Over the last four years, we’ve worked with our safety partners to encourage people to buckle up, get drunk drivers off the road, and end our distracted driving epidemic. For the first time, we made distracted driving part of the national conversation, and we launched a national campaign to stop drivers from using hand-held cell phones and from texting behind the wheel.

Today, 39 states ban texting while driving; 10 states ban hand-held cell phone use.

Through law enforcement crackdowns and our annual Roadcheck inspection program, we've also worked hard to make sure America's commercial drivers operate safely and their vehicles are in safe working order. And with Safety Edge and other innovations, we're working to make sure the roads themselves offer every safety advantage available to travelers.

TRB toasts University Transportation Centers program on its 25th anniversary

As I wrote yesterday, my TRB-week kicked off with a High Speed Rail Workshop last Sunday. Another TRB event that I was happy to participate in that day was the 25th anniversary celebration of our University Transportation Centers program.

The purpose of these Centers, or UTCs, is to advance U.S. technology and expertise in the many
forms of transportation that make up our national system; to provide a strong transportation knowledge base outside DOT; and to address vital workforce needs for the next generation of transportation leaders.

Throughout our nation’s history, transportation innovations such as the Erie Canal, the transcontinental railroad, the automobile, and the Federal Interstate Highway System have all had a distinctive American quality, and they’ve made us who we are today by literally giving us greater access to opportunity. These improvements wouldn’t be possible without a strong and vibrant academic community. Our academic institutions are the heart of innovation in transportation. And DOT has been proud to work with educators and researchers to support our nation’s transportation goals.

Over the last 25 years, the University Transportation Centers program operated by our Research and Innovative Technology Administration has been DOT's vital link to a pipeline of knowledge and new talent. I know the same holds true for the state transportation agencies and industry leaders who also work closely with UTCs.

For example, the research conducted by UTCs has been critical to helping end our distracted driving epidemic by making us aware of the time and attention sending a text or making a call takes away from driving. A 2012 Rahall Transportation Institute study identified substantial economic benefits from public-private partnerships for construction of the I-73/74 National Highway System Corridor in West Virginia.  And a transit-focused research study from the University of South Florida helped develop a mobile application that helps riders with disabilities navigate transit systems in Florida.

Partnership for Sustainable Communities visits Cincinnati, Indianapolis

The new year is only a couple of weeks old, but readers of this blog know that DOT has hit the ground running. Bridge, tunnel, port, and transit projects are starting. We continue pursuing safety as our top priority. And we're working hard to make sure Americans have the transportation system they deserve.

Deputy Secretary John Porcari began 2013 just as he finished 2012 –working hard to improve transportation options for Americans across the country. Last week, Deputy Secretary Porcari was in Cincinnati and Indianapolis, with his counterparts from HUD and EPA, reviewing both cities' progress on key projects funded by the federal Partnership for Sustainable Communities.

Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory (speaking), with Deputy Secretary John Porcari

Now in its third year, the DOT-HUD-EPA Partnership for Sustainable Communities has provided a big lift to cities and regions trying to coordinate transportation, housing, and environmental projects. Planners have long known that decisions in any one of these three areas are interconnected with policies in the other two. The federal Partnership recognizes this and coordinates federal investments to reinforce good policy.

In Cincinnati, Deputy Secretary Porcari and others traveled along the future route of the Cincinnati Streetcar. This 3.6 mile loop will connect Cincinnati's Central Business District with the Over the Rhine neighborhood and is being funded by $40 million in DOT TIGER, Urban Circulator, and Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grants, as well as $85 million in local public and private funds.

Along the projected route for the Cincinnati Streetcar

Auto industry back in gear; good news from the Detroit Auto Show

Today, I went back to Detroit for the 2013 North American International Auto Show. It was perhaps my 11th or 12th visit to the Motor City since becoming Secretary of Transportation, and --let me tell you-- what a difference four years makes.

Four years ago when President Obama took office, America was in the midst of the worst economic recession since the Great Depression. As most of you know, this recession hit our auto industry hard. In the year before the president’s inauguration, the industry lost more than 400,000 jobs. Two great American auto companies stood on the brink. In Detroit, a dreary cloud hung over the 2009 auto show, and journalists were writing obituaries for the entire industry.

President Obama had two choices. He could do nothing, or he could take action.

Well, he did the right thing, and he took action. He refused to turn his back, and he made a commitment to stand by the American auto industry, to stand by the American parts manufacturers who support it, and to stand by the American workers who make it great.

At the 2013 auto show, I'm happy to say, all signs point to that commitment having paid tremendous dividends. This morning I saw a new energy and confidence, and it is clear to me that the U.S. auto industry is back.

High speed rail workshop gets TRB 2013 started on the fast track

For transportation professionals around the country, there's no week like TRB week--the Transportaton Research Board's Annual Meeting. The gathering, which got started yesterday here in Washington, DC, brings together more than 11,000 policy makers, administrators, practitioners, researchers, and representatives of government, industry, and academic institutions from all around the globe.

I was pleased to kick off my TRB week yesterday with Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph Szabo and Deputy Administrator Karen Hedlund at a workshop on the "Economics and Social Impacts of High Speed Rail Systems."

Sponsored by TRB's Intercity Passenger Rail Committee and the Mineta Transportation Institute, this all-day workshop featured sessions on the financing, challenges, and benefits of high speed rail, as well as updates on the status of U.S. and international high speed rail projects.

My message to workshop participants was straightforward: high speed rail is well on its way, and it is not turning back.

In just four years, we have made significant progress transforming President Obama's vision of American high speed rail into reality. Rail passengers on many routes are already enjoying some of the benefits of track and equipment upgrades, and every day brings us closer to true high speed.

Workforce development grants from FTA will boost transit agencies and job-seekers

This Administration has made unprecedented investments in our nation's transportation system. These investments have created jobs, and they have helped position us for a cleaner, safer, and more economically competitive future. But we won't be able to continue building or running the systems we build without talented people to do the work.

So today, we're announcing $7 million in workforce development grants from the Federal Transit Administration to 17 organizations in 12 different states.

In addition to supporting America's transit systems, these grants reflect the Obama Administration's commitment to helping Americans find good jobs.

Over the last four years, President Obama has encouraged us to work toward an America that offers its people and businesses reliable, affordable, and safe transportation choices. One of those choices --which an increasing number of Americans are choosing-- is public transportation, or transit.

Here at DOT, we think that's terrific, and we're looking forward to continuing to work with communities across the U.S. to help them create the transit services they need. We also want to ensure that there are well-trained people available to our nation's communities who can build, maintain, and operate their public transportation systems. And that's where the grants we announced today will make a big difference.

They'll make a big difference for the transit systems in those cities, but especially to the men and women who will be prepared for good transit careers thanks to the programs that the FTA's Workforce Development Grants support.

Elizabeth River Tunnels Project Kicks Off; New tunnel will help area residents save time and money

Since it opened 50 years ago, the volume of traffic in the Midtown Tunnel connecting Portsmouth and Norfolk, Virginia, has increased by 600 percent. Currently, more than 120,000 drivers use the two-lane tunnel to cross the Elizabeth River each and every day.

The communities of Virginia Beach, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, and Norfolk are home to tens of thousands of military families and civilian workers supporting our armed forces, the shipbuilding industry, a busy port, and other employers. This very popular region has seen tremendous grwoth recently, but the cost of that growth has been increased congestion. These folks deserve a new option for getting where they need to go.

Fortunately, the Elizabeth River Tunnels Project kicked-off today. And our Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez was there to help celebrate the big event.

Photo courtesy VDOT

The Elizabeth River Tunnels Project will construct a new two-lane tunnel between Norfolk and Portsmouth running parallel to the existing tunnel. In addition to reducing congestion by building a new tunnel, the project will provide a seamless connection between an extended Martin Luther King Expressway and I-264, saving the region's drivers even more time. Once the new Midtown Tunnel is complete, the average round-trip driver using the tunnel will gain about 30 minutes a day, saving fuel costs and cutting greenhouse gas emissions, too.

We’re also rehabilitating the existing Midtown Tunnel tube as well as the nearby Downtown Tunnel, which will further increase safety for drivers, passengers, and cargo.

New Congress means new opportunities to advance transportation priorities

Last week, a new year kicked off here in Washington, DC, with the swearing in of the 113th Congress. Now, new Representatives and Senators will join their returning colleagues from around the nation to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing America today--including transportation. As Secretary of Transportation, and as a former U.S. Representative from Illinois, I congratulate all of them and wish them great success as they take up their important work.

In addition to congratulating the 113th, I also want them to know that I look forward to working with them to address our national transportation priorities.

The Freshman Class of the 113th on the steps of the U.S. Capitol; photo courtesy National Journal

Last year, the 112th Congress passed the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21).  This new surface transportation law streamlines and consolidates many programs, adds important new ones, and --most importantly--gives DOT the legislative authority to operate for the next two years.

MAP-21 allows DOT to continue increasing safety on our nation's roads and transit systems. It allows us to continue improving the way we move the freight that fuels our economy. And it allows us to continue investing in the infrastructure our country needs to succeed--all while putting thousands of Americans to work.

Members of the 113th House take the oath; photo courtesy Washington Post

Michael Huerta sworn in as 17th FAA Administrator

This morning, I was particularly pleased to administer the oath of office to America's 17th Federal Aviation Administrator, Michael Huerta. Administrator Huerta's swearing-in was a momentous occasion for the Federal Aviation Administration, for Michael and his family, for the aviation industry, and for the nation. 

As Deputy Administrator and as Acting Administrator, Michael has managed a number of challenges over the past couple of years--with tenacity, skill, and diplomacy.  And as its new leader, I know he will ensure an even stronger future for the FAA and everyone who flies in our nation’s skies.

Already during his time at the FAA, Michael has done a terrific job helping position the agency to deliver NextGen–the Next Generation Air Transportation System. NextGen is our cutting-edge program that will enable more on-time, fuel-efficient flights, a win-win situation for airlines and travelers alike. And he recently established a new organization within the agency to focus on implementing future major technology programs.

Through his leadership, Michael has generated much goodwill among FAA employees. For example, in November he traveled to New York to personally thank FAA professionals for their efforts to keep the region's aviation system operating smoothly after superstorm Sandy.

Then Acting FAA Administrator Michael Huerta (left) talks with Tech Ops employees Jim Coolbaugh Jr. (center) and Eric Spare about work to repair the Runway 31 Localizer after it was damaged by Sandy

I look forward to seeing Michael put his vision for the FAA into action.

But I know that at the top of Administrator Huerta's plans is a continued push for our top priority: ensuring the safety of the traveling public. As he said today, “I want to see us eliminate every vestige of risk in our aviation system and raise the bar even higher as the safest aviation system in the world.”

Michael Huerta has been an extraordinary transportation leader, and I am confident that we could have found no better Administrator for the FAA.

As the Seaway navigation season ends, the important winter maintenance season begins

At midnight on December 29th, the two U.S. locks of the St. Lawrence Seaway System were closed to traffic, ending the Seaway’s 54th navigation season. But although no more ships will be coming through the system this winter, activity at the locks has not slowed down at all.

In fact, work is under way at both the Eisenhower and Snell locks 24/7 in order to accomplish the necessary capital improvement and maintenance projects that must be completed before the locks reopen to vessel traffic in late March.

The first step is dewatering the locks. Pumping out 23 million gallons of water takes about 60 hours to complete. As the locks dry out, crews of Seaway workers and contractors bring in the machinery and materials needed to begin the maintenance and rehabilitation work on the Seaway’s infrastructure.

It’s also pretty cold up there in the North Country during the winter, so crews build enclosures and use heaters to warm isolated areas as needed for activities like replacing concrete and applying paints.

Winter work routinely consists of inspecting, performing maintenance on, and repairing the various lock structures, operating machinery, and controls that can only be accessed when a lock is dewatered and the Seaway is closed.

In addition to this annual work, the Seaway is in its fifth year of a robust Asset Renewal Program (ARP), a 58-project, multi-million dollar program to renew the infrastructure that is now more than 50 years old.

Gerald Desmond Bridge replacement a vital piece of America's future

As our economy grows stronger, it is more important than ever to improve the way we move goods into and out of our nation's ports. That's why Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez was happy to be at the Port of Long Beach, California, earlier today to mark the groundbreaking of the Gerald Desmond Bridge Replacement.

For more than 40 years, the Gerald Desmond Bridge has been part of the Long Beach, California community. It has been vital in supporting the daily commuting needs of tens of thousands of local residents, but it very likely has also been a vital part of your life, even if you live halfway across the country.

You see, the Gerald Desmond bridge connects the Port of Long Beach--one of America's busiest ports--with the rest of the country. And that means that more than 10 percent of the goods and materials entering the United States cross the Gerald Desmond enroute to stores, homes, factories, and farms across the nation. Because the bridge also carries products to the Port bound for international markets, the bridge indirectly supports jobs at companies nationwide who rely on sales overseas.

Unfortunately, the 44-year-old bridge can no longer keep up with the transportation demand it faces.  It is already handling more than double the traffic volume it was designed for and has been severely strained in recent years as port volumes increased.

In addition to frequent traffic jams, the bridge's superstructure is so decrepit that giant nets were placed on its underside to prevent concrete chunks from falling onto roadways and waterways below. In 2009, the California Department of Transportation gave the bridge a 48 (out of 100) "sufficiency rating," putting it high on the list of roadways needing replacement.

A section of the Gerald Desmond Bridge with safety netting to catch falling debris

NHTSA proposes sound standards to make quiet cars safer

Two years ago, President Obama signed the bipartisan Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2010. This law required our National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to ensure that electric and hybrid car manufacturers add noises that alert the blind and other pedestrians of a nearby vehicle.

And yesterday, in fulfillment of this congressional requirement, NHTSA proposed minimum sound standards to help make all pedestrians--and bicyclists--more aware of the approaching vehicles.

Because hybrid and electric vehicles operate so quietly, particularly at low speeds, they are more difficult for pedestrians and cyclists to detect when a vehicle is coming. This problem is even bigger for the visually impaired who rely on sounds for guidance.

The Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act sought to fix that, and yesterday's proposal is the result of NHTSA enthusiastically taking up the challenge. The proposal is now open to public comment for the next 60 days, so stay tuned for an update later this year.

Under the new standards, vehicle sounds would need to be detectable under a wide range of street noises and other background sounds when a vehicle is traveling slower than 18 miles per hour.  At that speed and above, vehicles make sufficient noise to allow pedestrians and bicyclists to detect them without added sound. 

Sacramento light rail expands with a lift from FTA

It's a new year, but at DOT we're picking up right where 2012 ended--by acting on our commitment to expand transportation choices. Today in California--with help from the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment grant program--we did exactly that by signing a full funding grant agreement to extend the Sacramento Regional Transit District's light rail system.

The 4.3 mile Blue Line extension will link downtown Sacramento with the growing South County corridor, offering commuters an alternative to driving and connecting the faculty, staff, and students at Cosumnes River College with the shops, restaurants and other businesses in the heart of the city.

Artist's rendering of the Morrison Creek Station

When you build transit, you also open the door to new local economic development. Just as we've seen with new transit projects across America, in addition to improving access to Sacramento's major employers, extending the Blue Line will also encourage economic development near the extension's four new stations. For example, developers are already preparing to build up the area around the Morrison Creek Station.

New stores and services, new employers, and new housing will combine with the light rail extension to create communities where people can live and shop closer to where they work.

Photo courtesy Dennis McCoy, Sacramento Business Journal

Mariners hoopsters visit DC to face conference rivals

I make no secret of how much I value DOT's service academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY.  And many at DOT share my appreciation. So you can understand our excitement at the opportunity to welcome the USMMA men's and women's basketball teams to Washington, DC, this past Saturday to  face their Landmark Conference rivals, Catholic University.

Maritime Administrator David Matsuda gave me the play-by-play on the Mariners’ efforts to bring some victories back to Kings Point.

Administrator Matsuda with the USMMA Women's Basketball Team

The Lady Mariners fought hard against the 20th-ranked Cardinals with leadership from point guard Marlee Chovich of Lake Oswego, Oregon. Unfortunately, despite a strong second half scoring effort from Reshonda Josephs of nearby Culpepper, VA, our Mariners fell to the reigning Landmark Conference champions, 67-30.

During the women's play, the men's team watched supportively, mentally preparing for a tough matchup of their own against the nationally-ranked Catholic University Cardinals.

Senior captain Roshenda Josephs' double-double came from a team-high 11 points and 11 rebounds
Photo courtesy www.usmmasports.com.

Pipeline Safety Act one year later

One year ago today, President Obama signed into law the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act (PSA). Our nation's pipelines offer the safest and most cost-effective way to transport the natural gas and and other products we need to heat our homes and power our economy, and this legislation gave our Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration the ability to make those pipelines even safer.

As PHMSA Administrator Cynthia Quarterman recently noted, "We know that domestic energy production and pipeline investments are up and will likely continue to grow. The Pipeline Safety Act gives us the tools to stay ahead of this shifting demand."

In just the first year under the Pipeline Safety Act, PHMSA initiated several rulemakings to improve the way pipeline operators manage the strength --also called the integrity-- of gas and liquid pipelines. To make the new rules even more effective, the agency also produced a thorough, multi-chapter webinar to educate the pipeline community about the latest integrity management requirements.

The law also required PHMSA to develop pipeline safety standards that require operators to install automatic or remote-controlled pipeline shut-off valves and excess flow valves. These valves can play a critical role in shutting off the flow of material and stopping leaks. In 2012 PHMSA studied those valves in preparation for issuing new standards.

To communicate to the industry and the public, PHMSA also held several meetings and webinars covering topics such as leak detection, enforcement procedures, and state damage excavation laws. And to make sure pipelines are meeting our safety standards, PHMSA has hired and trained additional federal pipeline safety inspectors, bringing the total authorized by the new law to 135 nationwide.

Changes from MAP-21 keep DOT busy in 2012...and 2013

For transportation folks, one of the biggest developments of 2012 was the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act --or MAP-21-- that President Obama signed into law last July. This two-year surface transportation law changed and streamlined many DOT programs as well as introducing a few new ones.

Putting those changes into action was a stiff challenge for DOT professionals, and I'm happy to say they have been up to that challenge.

MAP-21 meant crafting dozens of fact sheets and other documents to provide guidance to transportation planners who will help carry out the new programs across the United States. It meant creating a multi-modal Freight Policy Council to develop a National Strategic Freight Plan. It meant beginning to forge a transit safety program from whole cloth. And it meant an extensive effort to communicate the law's many changes to America's transportation community.

In just three months, and in time for the October 1 MAP-21 start date, we published fact sheets on all Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration programs and prepared interim guidance for DOT's largest programs.

Also, on its MAP-21 website, FHWA made available 39 different question and answer documents covering a wide range of topics from Innovative Project Delivery to Highway Safety to Environmental Review.  Many of those documents were prepared in partnership with FTA, and I'm really pleased to see that cross-agency collaboration at DOT. FTA's MAP-21 website features its own FAQs and 17 different fact sheets on topics like Capital Investment Projects (which many of us know as "New Starts"), Metropolitan Planning, and State of Good Repair.