Book excerpt: The nation¿s economic vitality and the quality of life depend on the availability, dependability, and security of its surface transportation (ST) network of roads, railways, ports, and transit systems. For the past several decades, demand has outpaced the capacity of the ST system. Furthermore, fed. ST programs are not effectively addressing key challenges, such as congestion, or ensuring that transportation dollars are well spent. This report: (1) identifies key themes emphasized in proposals by stakeholders, incl. assoc. and research org., for restructuring and funding ST programs; and (2) discusses the extent to which various recommendations align with principles developed for evaluating proposals to restructure and fund ST programs. Illus.