Detroit and the rest of the nation have benefitted from the seven years of unprecedented economic growth under the leadership of President Clinton and Vice President Gore. This growth has been fueled by record levels of infrastructure investment that, even before the passage last year of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21 st Century, known as TEA-21, far exceeded those of the previous Administration. Transportation means people. It gives support for community development and for business opportunity. It provides a way for people to reach jobs, education, healthcare, and commercial centers.
Transportation is truly the tie that binds.
Transportation is a key part of the Clinton-Gore livability agenda because it is so important to every other part of our lives. The Clinton-Gore Livability Initiative begins with the premise that continued growth is key to our economic competitiveness and that strong communities are essential to our quality of life. The initiative rests on the bedrock principle that local citizens know best how to grow and shape their communities. Land development and infrastructure decisions are best made at the local level. This unique program, for the first time, provides communities with the comprehensive tools and resources they need to preserve green spaces, ease traffic congestion, promote regional cooperation, improve schools, and enhance economic competitiveness.