Bush pushes for additional highway infrastructure funds

President George W. Bush April 26 called for additional highway funding in a prepared video address to the Associated General Contractors of America's (AGC's) Chapter Leadership Conference.

In the prepared statement, Bush commented that the administration had reached an important agreement with House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Don Young (R-Alaska) and House Budget Committee Chairman Jim Nussle (R-Iowa) on additional highway funds that are part of a budget that controls overall spending and sticks with the principles of TEA-21.

Bush also said that a strong transportation infrastructure is crucial for the economy and that safer roads and bridges allow businesses to move products more efficiently, create good jobs and pay good money.

AGC Chief Executive Officer Stephen E. Sandherr said, "We are pleased that the president has reached an agreement with the House Transportation and Budget committees on additional highway funding. AGC will continue to work with the administration and House committees to ensure that the nation's highway, bridges and other infrastructure are funded at the highest possible level, while staying within the overall budget."

AGC chapter leaders also heard from Dr. Larry Lindsey, the administra- tion's chief economic advisor. Lindsey thanked AGC for its involvement in the Fiscal Responsibility Coalition, which is championing restraint in government spending. Lindsey also discussed the problem associated with the lack of terrorist risk insurance.