AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet to Meet With U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood

AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet will meet today with U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to discuss critical next steps for transportation after the economic recovery bill, the need for federal program reforms and adequate funding to meet the nation's future transportation challenges.

"We are looking forward to discussing the crucial role of transportation in our economy and in our members' quality of life with Secretary LaHood," said Darbelnet. "I commend President Obama and Secretary LaHood for making transportation an important component of the economic recovery bill, and moving quickly to get the stimulus dollars out to the states and communities. But the transportation work is far from complete. Additional significant transportation investment is required to meet the demands of a growing population and a global economy. I hope to learn more about the Secretary's vision for the nation's transportation system, especially as Congress begins consideration of the next multi-year transportation authorization bill."

"Ensuring the safety and efficiency of our transportation infrastructure is absolutely vital to keeping our economy healthy and competitive," Secretary LaHood said. "We will work closely with Congress to ensure that we have the resources we need to invest wisely in our roads, bridges, and other transportation modes -- while making our communities more livable and sustainable for the future," he added.

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.