In fact, the issue of matching funds deserves a more thorough and complete examination. States are creatively using a broad array of public and private resources to provide improved rail service. A broadening of the sources of eligible matching funds should be encouraged. The combination of federal, state and other funds can help achieve both economies of scale and funding levels attractive to investors. Further, we need to increase investment in transportation infrastructure.
States are responsible for delivering a broad array of transportation services.
This requires program stability and a reliable and predictable source of revenue. Rather, we wish to draw upon a major strength of the bill - its commitment to financial innovation and equity. The structure of HR 3700 benefits all levels of transportation federalism. For the federal partners it provides significant additional capital without unduly straining budget resources and the appropriations process. On the state side it provides a stable, long-term, source of financial resources.