GAO Reports: Challenges Facing the Department of Transportation and Congress

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report outlining views on major challenges facing DOT and Congress as they work to administer recovery funds and reauthorize surface transportation and aviation programs.

• Why GAO Did This Study

A safe, efficient, and convenient transportation system is integral to the health of our economy and quality of life. Our nation’s vast transportation system of airways, railways, roads, transit systems, and waterways has served this need, yet is under considerable pressure due to increasing congestion and costs to maintain and improve the system. Calls for increased investment come at a time when traditional funding for transportation projects is increasingly strained. The authorizing legislation supporting transportation programs will soon expire.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) implements national transportation policy and administers most federal transportation programs. DOT received funds for transportation infrastructure projects through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to aid in economic recovery. DOT also requested $72.5 billion to carry out its activities for fiscal year 2010.

This statement presents GAO’s views on major challenges facing DOT and Congress as they work to administer recovery funds and reauthorize surface transportation and aviation programs. It is based on work GAO has completed over the last several years. GAO has made recommendations to DOT to improve transportation programs; the agency has generally agreed with these recommendations. To supplement this existing work, GAO obtained information on the recovery funds provided to DOT.

MarEx Editor’s NOTE: The report outlines $48.1 billion in Recovery Act funds allotted to the Transportation Department, of which only $100 million (0.20% of the totals) is slotted for maritime use.