James Oberstar

There are clearly some worthwhile projects proposed, but there are others that appear either unnecessary or, frankly, clearly need further explanation.

I think that a comprehensive review and evaluation of all the capital improvement needs is warranted.

Receiving the Capital Investment and Leasing Programs in June provides us with, frankly, very little time, almost no time, to review and act on those prospectuses before the appropriations process begins.

But the cost to the taxpayer would be about $1,000 per square foot. That is pretty significant by any stretch of the imagination.

The Recovery Act is an unprecedented effort to jump start our economy, create and save millions of jobs.

You go back knowing that your Member of Congress, Mr. Mica, is the senior Republican on the Committee and a partner in the works of all this Committee.

So you set aside some millions of dollars?

I frankly have little sympathy for the complaints of State DOTs that they are subjected to reporting requirements.

That is music to my ears, but I wanted to hear it straight from you.

It is good to see that it has been so successful that it needs renovation.

Thank you. That is an excellent report, very uplifting.

In the construction business, it is somewhat unique, unlike an iron ore mine or a factory of one kind where the jobs are local.

You have 100 percent responsibility to be accountable for it.

The Recovery Act language from our Committee was very specific that the Recovery Act funds, which are 100 percent funding, should be in addition to the program of projects the States had committed to undertake prior to enactment of the…

I anticipated that, but I am very pleased that it is happening.

I learned on my recent 9,000 mile trip on Amtrak trains that Amtrak is unique.

Fifty-four percent of the funds have been actually obligated or under contract.

A grantee being a transit agency, urbanized or non-urbanized, and in some cases a State applicant...

These are 100 percent Federal funds and the public should know what is happening with the dollars, how the projects are being implemented, where they are going, and the jobs created.

I really want to commend you, Mr. Chairman, for your leadership, especially with the authorization proposal that you set forth.

The transformational vision for passenger rail service in the United States takes teamwork and focus from all.

The Recovery Act has energized working people and companies of all sizes.

We need to turn that on its side and get everybody in the permitting room at the beginning of the project.

I am personally offended by that.

They actually said we could only spend out at a rate of 2.4 percent. They were wrong.