Transportation policy of the United States

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== Transportation Policy of the United States ==

The Transportation policy of the United States encompasses the laws, regulations, and funding mechanisms that govern the development, maintenance, and operation of the nation's transportation systems. This includes highways, railroads, aviation, public transit, and maritime transport. The policy aims to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation options for the movement of people and goods.

Historical Background

The history of transportation policy in the United States dates back to the early 19th century with the construction of the Erie Canal and the establishment of the National Road. The Interstate Highway System, initiated in the 1950s under the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, marked a significant expansion in federal involvement in transportation infrastructure.

Key Legislation

Several key pieces of legislation have shaped U.S. transportation policy:

• The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956: Established the Interstate Highway System.
• The Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964: Provided federal funding for public transit.
• The Airline Deregulation Act of 1978: Deregulated the airline industry.
• The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA): Promoted intermodal transportation and introduced the concept of transportation planning.
• The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21): Continued funding for highways and transit.
• The Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act): Provided long-term funding for surface transportation.

Federal Agencies

Several federal agencies are responsible for implementing transportation policy:

• The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT): Oversees national transportation policy.
• The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): Manages the federal-aid highway program.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Regulates civil aviation.
• The Federal Transit Administration (FTA): Supports public transportation.
• The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA): Oversees rail transport.
• The Maritime Administration (MARAD): Promotes the U.S. merchant marine and maritime industry.

Funding

Transportation funding in the United States comes from various sources, including:

• The Highway Trust Fund: Financed by federal fuel taxes.
• State and local taxes: Including sales taxes, property taxes, and tolls.
• Public-private partnerships: Collaborative funding between government and private entities.

Current Issues

Several contemporary issues influence U.S. transportation policy:

• Infrastructure maintenance and modernization: Addressing the aging infrastructure.
• Sustainability: Reducing the environmental impact of transportation.
• Public transit: Expanding and improving public transportation options.
• Technology: Integrating new technologies such as autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles.
• Equity: Ensuring fair access to transportation for all communities.

Related Pages

• Interstate Highway System
• Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956
• United States Department of Transportation
• Public transit in the United States
• Federal Aviation Administration
• Federal Railroad Administration
• Maritime transport in the United States