Bowman describes Governor Gerald L. Balies' attempt to address the transportation problems caused by rapid suburban growth by reorienting the highway program from rural to suburban areas. He describes the political background and the political consequences of the program change. This is the only recent analysis of a state's attempt to change its approach to highway policy and the only analysis of highway politics of any American state.

We are here today at your request to discuss recent efforts by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to better oversee and control the costs of major highway and bridge projects 80 percent of which are often paid by the federal government. Given the needs to improve the nation's transportation infrastructure, it is important that major projects be managed effectively and cost efficiently. A growing demand for resources since September 11 only heightens the need to ensure their effective management.