DES MOINES – Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) Director Mark Lowe was at the White House Wednesday to discuss infrastructure challenges facing states and communities. The conversation was part of ongoing talks between federal, state and local leaders.
Dir. Lowe joined a mix of transportation, economic development, agriculture and natural resources leaders. Also participating in the discussion were members of the President’s National Economic Council, senior White House staff and cabinet members.
The goal was to gain perspective and input on infrastructure challenges and opportunities from all layers of government, underscore the need for a different approach, allow participants to brainstorm together and outline draft guiding principles.
“The administration is still finalizing details of their infrastructure plan, but it was helpful to hear firsthand the principles they have established and the strategies they are considering. It was gratifying to see state and local leaders included in the conversation,” Dir. Lowe said. “There were several themes that I and other transportation leaders found very encouraging, including greater decision-making and control at the state and local level, concerted efforts to eliminate layers of permitting that delay projects and increase their cost and a commitment to funding strategies that meet the needs of rural states.”
