By Cynthia Sewell | Idaho Statesman

A $1.6 trillion bill to repair the nation's roads, bridges and other aging infrastructure is coming due, but money is in short supply.

Government leaders - from Capitol Hill to small rural towns - know what the problem is but not the solution, said Congressman Earl Blumenauer, D-Oregon on Thursday. Blumenauer co-hosted with Idaho Republican Congressman Mike Simpson a transportation and infrastructure discussion with about 40 local leaders in Boise.

"I have yet to visit a community that feels they are prepared to address the infrastructure challenges they will face in the next 20 years," said Blumenauer, who has introduced a bill that would create a commission on America's 21st century infrastructure needs.

"What is underground is in worse shape than the bridges - 72,000 miles of the nation's water and sewer pipes are over 80 years of age, dating back to (President Calvin) Coolidge," said Blumenauer.

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