Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21)

Definition

The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) is a comprehensive piece of legislation enacted in 1998 that authorized federal funding for surface transportation programs in the United States. It aimed to enhance the safety, efficiency, and equity of transportation systems by providing significant financial support for highways, public transit, and pedestrian projects while also promoting environmental stewardship and community involvement in transportation planning.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. TEA-21 authorized over $218 billion in federal funding for surface transportation programs from 1998 to 2003, reflecting a commitment to improving the nation’s transportation infrastructure.
2. The act established new funding categories, including programs specifically aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
3. TEA-21 encouraged state and local governments to involve communities in the transportation planning process, recognizing the importance of local input in developing effective transportation solutions.
4. The legislation placed a strong emphasis on environmental protection by promoting projects that support cleaner air and reduce traffic congestion.
5. TEA-21 was succeeded by subsequent legislation, including SAFETEA-LU in 2005, which continued to build upon the principles of transportation equity established by TEA-21.

Review Questions

• How did TEA-21 address issues of safety and accessibility within transportation systems?
  • TEA-21 included specific funding categories aimed at improving safety and accessibility for various modes of transport. This involved investments in pedestrian facilities, bike paths, and public transit enhancements to ensure that all community members, regardless of their mode of travel, had safe and equitable access to transportation resources. By emphasizing these aspects, TEA-21 recognized the need for a holistic approach to transportation planning that prioritizes user safety.
• In what ways did TEA-21 promote environmental sustainability in transportation projects?
  • TEA-21 promoted environmental sustainability through funding initiatives aimed at reducing air pollution and traffic congestion. The act encouraged the development of projects that incorporated environmentally friendly practices, such as improving public transit options and creating bike lanes. By incentivizing local governments to adopt greener transportation solutions, TEA-21 contributed to a more sustainable approach to infrastructure development that aligns with contemporary environmental goals.
• Evaluate the impact of community involvement as mandated by TEA-21 on transportation planning processes.
  • The requirement for community involvement in transportation planning mandated by TEA-21 significantly transformed how transportation projects were developed. By encouraging local stakeholders to participate in planning discussions, the act fostered greater transparency and accountability in decision-making. This not only led to more tailored solutions that met the specific needs of communities but also enhanced public support for projects, ultimately resulting in more successful implementation of transportation initiatives across the country.

Related terms

Surface Transportation: Refers to all transportation modes that take place on land, including highways, railroads, and public transit systems.

Intermodal Transportation: The use of more than one mode of transport to move goods or passengers from one place to another, enhancing efficiency and connectivity.

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): A division of the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for overseeing the construction, maintenance, and safety of the nation's highways.