Thomas E. Petri: “I am joined by the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Olver) and several other Members in offering an amendment that…”

“I am joined by the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Olver) and several other Members in offering an amendment that would strike section 114 of the bill. This provision, as described in the committee report, "discontinues the mandatory 10 percent set-aside from the surface transportation program for the transportation enhancement program." Mr. Chairman, this is wrong on many levels, and the provision should be stricken from the bill. Over the last 12 years, enhancements have become an appreciated and important part of our transportation program. Though individual projects are not costly, enhancements nevertheless pack a big punch in terms of promoting economic growth and tourism. They fund bike paths that are enjoyed by families on a Saturday morning. They complete street-scape projects that revitalize the neighborhood. They improve our quality of life and have become important to communities across our country. All of them have a transportation-related purpose.”