Between the Lines: House Stimulus Bill

From the economic stimulus package to the renewal of the federal transportation bill, 2009 is a big year for the nation's cars, trains, and buses and their accompanying infrastructure. What does Congress have planned for us? NRDC experts parse one section of the executive summary of the House stimulus bill.

Yerina Mugica, Center for Market Innovation: "In terms of modernizing buildings, something like CFL light bulbs cost more up front, but they reduce your energy bill over time. The same applices to transportation: new projects may cost more at the start, but they'll save you money over time."

Deron Lovass, Air & Energy: "A $3 billion amendment was added to rail and transit spending in the final draft of the House bill. The amendment sends a signal that we need more balance between highway and public transit spending. One billion dollars will go toward rail, which is intercity travel, and $12 billion toward transit, or travel within cities."

Jennifer Henry, Center for Market Innovation: "Regarding job creation, research shows that transit projects create more bang for your buck than repairing or creating new highways. Public transportation also enables cheap access to jobs; people can give up a car without being stranded."

Nancy Stoner, Water: "Water has its own transit system that requires as much infrastructure as highway systems and rail lines. That includes pipes and pumps as well as trees, soil, and wetlands, all of which are needed to ensure that people keep getting clean, healthy water."