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Good Morning

Article by: Scott Gillespie
Updated: December 8, 2008 - 11:00 AM

President-elect Barack Obama's said twice Sunday that the economy "is going to get worse before it gets better.'' Those who want optimism and hope from their new president are going to have to wait. Obama does promise a large public works spending program, although he's not yet used a dollar figure. That program was the top topic of discussion at today's Editorial Board meeting, with some consensus around the opinion that any new transportation funding should include money for high-speed rail and commuter rail. Our nation's roads also need attention, but the new administration should balance those needs with projects that can ease traffic congestion, help business get its goods from Point A to Point B and help the environment by getting more cars off the road. So that's today's question of the day: Roads or rail? How do you want to see federal public works dollars appropriated?

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ShockwaveDec. 8, 0811:32 AM

More than just "roads vs. rail", we need an overall strategy. For Obama's plan to be more than makework, it will build a stronger infrastructure. Certainly, we need to fix some of the worst roads and bridges right away, but we also plan for the long run. I don't think your Editorial Board is asking the right question.

iluvminnDec. 8, 08 2:00 PM

The internet saves more resources by moving information, not mass. Young people take it for granted, kind of like antibiotics. I'm very hopeful in a smarter America.

linuxguyDec. 9, 08 2:07 PM

What the heck kind of comment is that? The simple fact is the economy "is going to get worse before it gets better." Optimism is not telling people everything is fine when it is not. Optimism mean facing the challenge calmly and rationally, with faith that the challenge can be overcome with good planning and hard work.

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