Rep. Oberstar still fighting for new transportation bill

by Tom Crann, Minnesota Public Radio

The stimulus plan passed in February included $48 billion for transportation projects, but that's just a fraction of what the nation's roads, rails and bridges really need.

Minnesota Congressman Jim Oberstar has been arguing with the Obama administration over a massive new transportation bill that would spend nearly $500 billion over six years. It would also overhaul the U.S. department of transportation.

Oberstar wants to pass the bill this year. The White House and his Senate counterparts want to extend current transportation funding for another 18 months, that's until after the midterm elections.

Tom Crann talked with Congressman Oberstar, who said when it comes to battling the White House, he's "an equal-opportunity complainer."

Transportation Secretary Ray Lahood will be in town on Thursday to make a speech and tour St. Paul's Union Depot.