Rogers, Carnahan, and Intelligent Transportation Society of America President and CEO Scott Belcher hosted a telephone press conference Wednesday to brief reporters on the bipartisan legislation. Also Wednesday, Belcher testified before the House Highways and Transit Subcommittee about the Smart Technologies for Communities Act (HR 995) and the importance of investing in technology solutions as part of the surface transportation reauthorization bill. (see related story on the subcommittee hearing) ITSA represents a national and statewide network of more than 1,600 public- and private-sector transportation technology leaders.

The Smart Technologies for Communities Act sponsored by Rogers and Carnahan would create a competitive pilot program in up to six communities to serve as model deployment sites for large-scale installation and operation of ITS technologies to improve safety, mobility, and the environment. Examples of technology solutions include "connected" vehicles that avoid crashes; stress-sensing bridges; active traffic management to reduce congestion; electronic tolling systems; and real-time traffic, transit, and parking information for commuters.

"We cannot continue to simply build our way into a transportation system necessary for the demands of the 21st century," Rogers said in a statement released by ITSA. "Technologies and information exist today to cost-effectively, safely, and efficiently manage our nation's roads and infrastructure."

Carnahan said America's roads, bridges, and traffic lights desperately need repair.

"With budgets tight, we have to look for solutions that stretch every dollar," he said. "By tapping into new technology, we can address those problems while at the same time solving traffic congestion problems, preventing accidents, and putting gas money back in the pockets of families and businesses."

Congestion on U.S. roads currently interferes with America's daily activities -- slowing down commerce, polluting the environment, and wasting fuel, according to ITSA.

"Cash-strapped cities and communities are challenged with addressing growing traffic congestion and deteriorating infrastructure at the same time as Americans are facing rising gas prices. We cannot continue business as usual," Belcher said. "As local agencies look for cost-effective solutions, smart technologies offer the most bang for the buck when it comes to reducing traffic congestion and vehicle crashes, making better use of existing road capacity, expanding travel options, and modernizing our transportation infrastructure."

More information about the Smart Technologies for Communities Act is available from ITSA at www.itsa.org/SmartCommunities.html.