TEA-21 Reauthorization

Preservationists have much at stake when Congress considers the upcoming reauthorization of TEA-21, the law that currently controls federal surface transportation policy. The new legislation, often referred to as T3, may continue the commitment made under TEA-21 and its predecessor, ISTEA: that transportation investments should prioritize improved public health, safety and security, environmental protection, economic prosperity, social equity and increased energy efficiency. (TEA-21 is an acronym for Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century; ISTEA, for Intermodal Surface Transportation and Efficiency Act; T-3 refers to the third iteration of this vision for transportation policy.) Extending these progressive policies would benefit preservation in many ways, including further support for transportation enhancements and for better road design .

But protecting the gains of the past decade will require much work. Because the reauthorization bill involves so many elements and so much money, many groups will be fighting for their programs. The following material will help preservationists understand the issues and how they can advocate for this important legislation.

• What's at Stake in Reauthorization
  An introduction to why the 2003 federal transportation bill is important to historic preservation.
• Surface Transportation Policy Project
  STPP supports transportation policies that prioritize the needs of people, rather than vehicles, to assure access to jobs, services, and recreational opportunities.
• TEA3.ORG
  Detailed information about the upcoming reauthorization.
• Congressional Information
  -House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
  - Hearings and Testimony (Go to Highway and Transit Subcommittee and Click on February 7 and 28)
  - Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
  - Committee Membership
  - Hearings and Testimony