Heads of some of the largest U.S. manufacturing and transportation companies sent a letter to the leaders of the U.S. House and Senate urging serious attention be given to passage of a long-term investment program aimed at repairing and upgrading the nation's neglected surface transportation network.

"Our companies and employees are major users of the U.S. highway, bridge, rail, air and public transportation systems. We depend on the ability to move products and materials quickly and efficiently as part of our everyday operations. An efficient and reliable transportation network is integral to the success of our supply chain and our domestic/international product distribution systems," the chief executive officers wrote.

They said their international competitiveness is being compromised by an inadequate transportation system that adds delay and extra expense to their shipping operations.

"We operate and compete in a global economy. Enhancing the capacity of all modes of surface transportation infrastructure is essential to keep pace with our global competitors who are making major new investments in their own transportation systems," the corporate leaders wrote.

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