RICHMOND VA. — The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) completed the sale of $600 million of Commonwealth of Virginia Transportation Capital Projects Revenue Bonds on May 11 to advance transportation projects managed by the Virginia Department of Transportation and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. This bond sale is the first step in the governor's plan to invest nearly $4 billion in roads, rail, and transit during the next three years.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — America’s infrastructure investments — levels of which have long trailed behind those of Asia and Europe — will be further stifled this year by pressures to cut federal spending and reduce the deficit, compelling cities to be evermore creative and resourceful in securing partnerships to start or continue infrastructure projects, according to “Infrastructure 2011: A Strategic Priority.” The report, released by the Urban Land Institute and Ernst & Young, emphasizes the challenge faced by many urban areas trying to provide adequate transportation and other infrastructure services for their residents, workers and businesses.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced $2 billion in high-speed rail awards to speed up trains in the Northeast Corridor, expand service in the Midwest, and provide new, state-of-the-art locomotives and rail cars. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration selected 15 states and Amtrak to receive $2.02 billion for 22 high-speed intercity passenger rail projects.

ST. LOUIS — For the past five years, Missouri's state highway construction program has averaged $1.2 billion a year. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) presented a new, five-year construction program to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission that's only half that amount — about $600 million a year. What does such a sharp decline in funding mean to Missourians?

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) released a 176-city survey focusing on local transportation infrastructure investments at the National Press Club. Atlanta (GA) Mayor Kasim Reed, USCM Transportation Committee Chair, delivered the survey findings. Given the economic problems facing the nation, mayors believe it is more important than ever that federal transportation priorities be targeted to metropolitan areas — home to two-thirds of U.S. residents.