U.S. Department of Transportation Signs I-95 Corridor of the Future Development Agreement to Relieve Congestion

Topics:  Interstate Highway System

Federal Highway Administration
9 December 2008

FHWA 25-08
Contact: Ian Grossman
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Tel.: (202) 366-0660

WASHINGTON - Deploying cutting-edge technology to relieve congestion and improve safety on I-95 from Maine to Florida has taken a large step forward thanks to an agreement signed today by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the I-95 Corridor Coalition.

The agreement signed by Federal Highway Administrator Tom Madison, commits the Coalition to evaluate innovative approaches for project delivery and educate states on the use of alternative project delivery, finance and operation mechanisms. The agreement also calls for a vision of doubling the fuel efficiency of the region's vehicle fleet and diversifying fuel use; and, supports a seamless integrated multimodal passenger and freight network to link the major metropolitan regions.

"We are using a comprehensive approach across state boundaries to bring real-time traffic information, expedited incident clearance procedures, and integrated intercity transit service that will reduce congestion and improve mobility along this critical corridor," said Administrator Madison.

The Coalition projects that by 2040 there will be a 70 percent increase in the amount of travel along I-95. Congestion will be up 84 percent, fuel consumption will increase 34 percent, and the amount of trucking will double.

Administrator Madison explained that among the many strategies necessary to achieve the goals in the agreement, the communities along the corridor should strive to double the current vehicle fuel efficiency and increase the use of alternative fuels.

"We know America's transportation system can be better, and today's signing makes an ambitious, forward-leaning plan to reduce congestion along I-95 one step closer to reality," said Madison.