Americans used the nation’s highway system to travel almost three trillion miles last year. That’s equal to nearly six million trips to and from the moon. Getting people and goods to their destination takes a safe and dependable highway system, and for the second year in a row America’s Transportation Awards will honor those signature projects that are improving travel and the quality of life in communities across the nation.
The competition’s sponsors—the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the American Automobile Association and the U.S. Chamber Commerce—will use volunteer judges to select the winning projects; delivered, on time, on budget and with innovative management.
“Today, as part of the economic recovery, states are making smart investments to create good jobs and serve their communities,” said John Horsley, AASHTO executive director. "States have demonstrated a commitment to keeping America moving and the 41 exceptional projects from 28 states entered last year, are good examples of the quality work being done.”
Regional winners will be announced this summer. Finalists will compete for the top two prizes: the Grand Prize and the People’s Choice Award.
"AAA and its members understand that the urgent need for an improved national transportation system requires projects that are completed on time, on budget, and make a significant difference in their respective regions. Such projects should be celebrated and can serve as shining examples for the planning and execution of critical projects in the future,” said Robert L. Darbelnet, AAA President and CEO. “AAA is pleased to be a part of ‘America’s Transportation Award’ to recognize and showcase smart transportation investments that can help alleviate congestion, improve mobility and make the nation’s roads and bridges safer for all who travel them.”
Last year’s Grand Prize went to the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, which crosses the Potomac River between Virginia and Maryland. The bridge is credited with dramatically reducing congestion at one of the country’s worst bottlenecks.
More than 55,000 people voted for the People Choice Award winner, Mississippi’s Bay St. Louis Bridge, which replaced the original structure destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.
“To convince Americans to support the necessary investment in our nation’s transportation system they have to see hard evidence of their user fees at work,” said Janet Kavinoky, director of transportation infrastructure at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “America’s Transportation Awards showcase projects that not only improve the flow of goods and services around our country, but also provide taxpayers with a tangible ‘bang for their buck.”
