Abstract
The paper considers a range of external forces and isses that could impact transportation in the coming decades. Attention is directed to key issue areas for transportation including contributions to economic growth; environmental and energy implications; effect of demographic changes; financing requirements and opportunities and technological innovation. Particular focus is given to the relationship between highway capital investment by the public sector and private sector economic performance. The paper discusses the effects of a change in total highway capital stock in private sector costs of production and highlights benefits to industries and the economy. Implications for commercial sector restructurings are addressed. (A)