Mark Udall: “I am voting for this bill because without enactment of such an extension the current transportation law will expire on…”

“I am voting for this bill because without enactment of such an extension the current transportation law will expire on September 30, 2003 and it is important that transportation programs and projects continue while Congress continues to work toward their long-term renewal. However, I am concerned about a provision in this bill that would grant States the ability to transfer unobligated funds between transportation programs during the extension period. Regional governments in my State have similar concerns. They have let me know that they are worried that shifting funds from transportation enhancement and safety activities, mitigation for metropolitan traffic congestion, and clean air programs could seriously undermine planning activities for these projects and cause critical delays and disruptions. There appears to be little need or justification for this provision, and I will continue to resist any attempt to weaken guaranteed funding for transportation enhancement activities when the transportation bill is reauthorized on a long-term basis. In the meantime, I strongly urge the Colorado Department of Transportation to work cooperatively with local entities, particularly the Denver Regional Council of Governments, to ensure that these enhancement programs are safeguarded during the extension period.”