The Missouri Highways in Transportation Commission has urged Congress to fund a highway program that increases from a minimum of $34 billion in FY 2004 to at least $45 billion in FY 2009, as part of the reauthorization of federal highway and transit programs this year.
The federal funding increase is needed in Missouri in order to dramatically improve highways and bridges.
"It is no secret that Missouri and many other states are suffering from budget shortfalls," said Commission Chairman Ollie Gates. "Additional revenues are needed to complete vital transportation projects in our state and throughout the country."
The resolution states that the Missouri Department of Transportation "currently lacks the necessary funding to adequately address the needs of the state highway system and the expectations of taxpayers."
The commission warns that dire consequences would result from any reduction in funding from the current level of $32 billion per year.
