The recent closing of a stretch of Interstate 95 in Pennsylvania demonstrates the tremendous unmet transportation needs facing the nation, according to a statement issued by John Horsley, executive director of the American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials. He was referring to a recent incident in which the Pennsylvania Dept. of Transportation ordered a two-mile section of Interstate 95 in Philadelphia closed after a large crack was found in a support pillar. That section of highway reportedly carries 180,000 vehicles a day.

“This event illustrates the enormous need nationwide for additional investment in transportation infrastructure,” Horsley says. “According to the National Bridge Investment Analysis System, the investment backlog for bridge repair is estimated to be at least $32.1 billion (in 2004 dollars). We must invest in building and maintaining sound, safe and environmentally sensitive highways and bridges or be willing to face more inconvenience, increased traffic congestion, and lost time and productivity.”