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Second , local and state governments can best evaluate the needs of their communities and the appropriate project scope that provides the greatest benefit to the communities .
Third , the various federal agencies can focus their efforts on moving large scale highway projects through the process and refocus their efforts on being resources to the state and local governments to meet the needs of our communities .
Lastly , the public wins . More resources are directed to projects that they can see , use , and reap the benefits from through an improved quality of life – all while improving our transportation network , which serves as the backbone for our nation ’ s economy .
This only works if the federal government has enough faith in states and counties to ensure public safety for their citizens . While I have no doubt the intentions of the federal government are to protect the public , there must be a realization that states have that same interest .
The FAST Act and MAP-21 both included provisions exempting emergency repair work when federal assistance is involved , but they do not go far enough , as there are still a multitude of project types that are susceptible to review regardless of the scale of its undertaking . For example , the Holley Mill Road project mentioned above could have been completed quicker for less money . More importantly , the bureaucratic delays of this project placed lives in danger . Creation of an exemption that removes all federal requirements from emergency repairs to any transportation facility damaged by a disaster would expedite restoration of services to our citizens , lower the costs of repairs and refocus federal resources to be available to support and assist with recovery efforts .
In closing , counties stand ready to work with our federal partners to achieve our shared goals of strengthening transportation networks , improving public safety and advancing our economic competitiveness . We need a strong , reliable federal partner that allows us to practically address the needs of our constituents .
Thank you again , Chairmen . Ranking Members and members of the Subcommittees , for the opportunity to testify today . I would be pleased to answer any questions .
NORTH ALABAMA HALLELUJAH
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