Project deadline extended

In a letter to colleagues, the leaders of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee extended a deadline for submitting requests for projects to be identified for funding in the upcoming highway and transit reauthorization bill.

Members now have until March 24 to submit requests, which must include a 21-item questionnaire. The questionnaire asks for information such as whether the project is part of the state's long-term plan or a metropolitan transportation improvement program; whether a project has encountered any environmental obstacles; and whether funding already has been received, either through authorizing or appropriations legislation.

Committee Chairman Don Young and Ranking Minority Member James Oberstar stated in a letter, "We believe that you, as members of the House of Representatives, are in the best position to help us identify the particular surface transportation needs of your congressional district, and to propose solutions to address those needs."

A website is being created by the committee to enable members to submit requests electronically. However, hard copy also must be provided, along with statements of support from state or regional transportation officials.