William H. Frist: “we are about to vote on the highway bill. I believe we have a strong bill, a bipartisan bill. I thank Senator Inhofe…”

“we are about to vote on the highway bill. I believe we have a strong bill, a bipartisan bill. I thank Senator Inhofe, Senator Bond, Senator Grassley, Senator Stevens, Senator Lott, and Senator Shelby for their hard work, dedication and leadership to get this bill passed. They have been instrumental to the process and deserve great credit. I also thank my colleagues Senator Jeffords, Senator Baucus, Senator Inouye, and Senator Sarbanes for their willingness to work cooperatively on this critical legislation. The highway bill is a result of a long, bipartisan process. It is based on more than 3 years of work, over a dozen hearings, testimony from more than 100 witnesses, and countless hours of negotiation. It is supported by a deep and broad coalition--from State and local highway authorities to national safety advocates. And in a few moments, we will finally deliver to the American people legislation that will help build and improve our vast and sprawling infrastructure. America is interlaced by nearly 4 million miles of roads and highways. The interstate highway system has often been called ``the greatest public works project in history.'' Our roads, ports and railroads are vital to America's economic success. We know this well in Tennessee where companies like Federal Express, U.S. Express, and Averitt Express are located. Unfortunately, America's transportation infrastructure has deteriorated badly and our roads have become painfully overcrowded.…”