The ISTEA (Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act) has the potential to provide work for landscape architects, if Congress remains faithful to its pledge to fully fund the program. Since its passage, appropriations for the ISTEA have fallen short by several billion dollars.

The act authorized funding for highway and mass transit programs from the federal government, while the states have the responsibility to establish their own priorities for those projects chosen.

The ISTEA is a six year program intended to provide continuing funds for the nation's trans-portation systems. It should provide a major opportunity for landscape architects in the transportation enhancement activities portion of the bill (see side bar). Should the funding be found, there could be a plethora of work for landscape architects. However, an existing gasoline tax intended to fund the program may be adversely affected by the outcome of President Clinton's currently proposed BTU energy tax.

ISTEA Enhancement Activities

Possible projects for landscape architects.

1. Provision of facilities for pedestrians and bicycles.

2. Acquisition of Scenic Easements and scenic or historic sites.

3. Scenic or historic highway programs.

4. Landscaping and other scenic beautification.

5. Historic preservation.

6. Rehabilitation and operation of historic transportation buildings, structures, or facilities. (including historic railroad facilities and canals)

7. Preservation of abandoned railway and corridors (including the conversion and use thereof for pedestrian of bicycle trails)

8. Control and removal of outdoor advertising.

9. Archaeological planning and research.

10. Mitigation of water pollution due to highway runoff.