THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590

August 23, 2006

Dear __________:

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has identified congestion as one of the single largest threats to our economic prosperity and way of life. Whether it takes the form of commuters and trucks stalled in traffic, cargo stuck at overwhelmed seaports, or airplanes circling over crowded airports, congestion is costing the American people an estimated $200 billion a year. The impact on American families and their quality of life is also reaching extreme levels in many parts of the country.

On May 16, 2006, the Department launched a new, national initiative to reduce congestion in America. This plan, the National Strategy to Reduce Congestion on America's Transportation Network, provides a blueprint for Federal, State and local officials to follow as we work together to tackle this growing challenge. For your information, attached is a copy of this plan.

As we embark on this initiative, the Department would like to make you aware of our intention to designate up to seven new projects under Executive Order 13274, Environmental Stewardship and Transportation Infrastructure Project Reviews, with an increased focus on reducing congestion on the most clogged sections of our transportation network. President Bush issued this Executive Order in 2002 to enhance environmental stewardship and streamline environmental review of transportation infrastructure projects. I have asked DOT staff to consult with your staff and we will advise you before any public announcement is made.

As DOT approaches the fourth anniversary of its signing, the Executive Order continues to be a critical tool in expediting environmental decisions for transportation infrastructure projects.

In addition to your support on these projects, I also ask for your agency's ideas as to how the Department can better address congestion as an Administration. For further information or assistance on this matter, please feel free to contact Tyler Duvall, Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy.

Maria Cino
Acting Secretary
U.S. Department of Transportation