Lincoln Chafee: “I want to confirm the understanding of the Senator from Maine, Ms. Collins, that, in fact, wood composite research…”

“I want to confirm the understanding of the Senator from Maine, Ms. Collins, that, in fact, wood composite research involving so-called wood FRP composites is eligible to compete for funding under those sections of the ISTEA II legislation that she mentioned. Furthermore, I want to confirm for the Senator that the Advanced Engineered Wood Composites Center at the University of Maine is eligible to apply for designation by the Federal Highway Administration as one of the four new national university transportation centers authorized by the ISTEA legislation as well. I understand there is a great deal of excitement about this new, emerging field of wood composite research. Certainly I believe that the Federal Government should be actively encouraging and providing funding for this innovative activity, which would be beneficial to rebuilding many of our bridges across our country. Mr. President, I look forward to continuing to work with Senator Collins during the committee conference on this matter, and I want to express my appreciation to her for her efforts in bringing this matter to my attention.”