Editor’s note: This is the sixth in a series of articles exploring the history, mission and essential services provided by key government agencies. President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed funding cuts and potential changes to the way agencies operate could significantly weaken these agencies and disrupt essential services that millions rely on daily.
Experts say the second Donald Trump presidency could mean federal support for public transportation, railway and electric vehicles is in jeopardy. During his first term, Trump proposed a trillion-dollar infrastructure plan that never happened. While details of Trump’s plans for the U.S. Department of Transportation are not yet clear, it’s expected that grant programs will focus on roads and rural areas.
History
The Department of Transportation was established by an act of Congress on Oct. 15, 1966. The department was created to consolidate agencies including the Federal Aviation Agency, Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration. The department now employs over 55,000 people.
Key functions and services
The Department of Transportation’s budget is approximately $146 billion across several agencies that include the following:
- Federal Aviation Administration
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- Federal Highway Administration
- Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Federal Railroad Administration
- Federal Transit Administration
- Maritime Administration
- Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp.
Image at top: Photo illustration by the SPLC.