Washington, D.C. -- (July 20, 2001)-- It is a pleasure to congratulate the city on the groundbreaking of the extension of the historic Canal Street Streetcar, which will eventually connect mid-city to downtown. I wish I could be with you today to celebrate. This ceremony is truly cause for celebration. It is a product of vision and hard work. The Streetcar project enriches the city by combining New Orleans tradition with 21st century innovation. The new, state-of-the art streetcars will be child safe, air-conditioned and in full compliance with disability laws. Not only is the Streetcar project important to businesses and residents of the city, but it is also important for the expansion of tourism. By providing free, safe, public transportation, the Canal Street Streetcar will alleviate traffic on Canal Street. And it will connect all who take advantage of its use to several points of pride in the city such as the New Orleans Museum of Art.

Mayor Morial and the city council, Chairman Tucker, and several members of Louisiana's congressional delegation and I have worked hard for many years to secure funding to make this project a reality. Most recently, we helped secure $23 million for the streetcar in a transportation measure. I congratulate the local leadership for helping to make this possible. All who support this project in Congress will continue to do our part so that one day in the not-too-distant future, the Streetcar will be up and running. In fact, today in Washington, I will honor this dedication with an entry in the Congressional Record. The Canal Street Streetcar is a symbol of our state's rich heritage and New Orleans's eclectic character. I am proud to be a part of its restoration.