America’s transportation policy is dysfunctional. It’s also nearly bankrupt. Now, as debate reaches a crescendo over a new $500 billion transportation bill, can the national interest trump hundreds of special interests?
Don’t bet on it.
As the nation’s transportation law came up for renewal last fall, more than 650 cites and counties were paying federal lobbyists to help deliver money from Washington. That number grew by 80 percent since the last such deadline. Most of those local governments would like an earmark, but they’re also looking for a brand new policy. Billions are on the line. Read More
The next massive federal transportation bill is both stalled and in need of new funding. To keep the pressure on, the transportation lobby is turning to plenty of beltway lobbying firms. These ten represent more than 400 of the interested parties. Read More
Almost 1,800 special interests spent at least $45 million over the first six months of this year to “help” Congress draft a new transportation bill. Who are they? Check out our story and the accompanying interactive map. Read More
More than 50 interests and 35 states are chasing $8 billion in stimulus rewards and the prospect for billions more. But the lobbying rush alone may not bring America any closer to realizing the dream of high-speed rail. Read More
Winter Ends for the High-Speed Rail Lobby
Money to High Speed Rail Could Create Conflicts with Other Transpo Projects

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