WASHINGTON, D.C. – Over the past 50 years, America has invested nearly $2 trillion in its highway system alone. Managing this enormous investment is critical because a modern, well-functioning surface transportation system is essential for economic success in a global economy.

AASHTO's Transportation TV today announced the first in a series of programs called Asset Management Now with Matt Hardy.

Hardy, AASHTO's program director for planning and policy, hosts the monthly show to highlight ways in which state transportation departments and other agencies are using asset management to stretch dollars and streamline project delivery. Hardy will also keep viewers informed about current transportation-related events and profile experts on the cutting edge.

In his first program, Hardy interviews AASHTO President and Director of the Michigan Department of Transportation Kirk Steudle, who oversees MDOT's more than $3 billion budget and is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and operation of nearly 10,000 miles of state highways and more than 4,000 state highway bridges.

"Every state and local agency is faced with diminished financial resources to maintain infrastructure and services," says Steudle. "Asset management is more important than ever in these challenging economic times."

Steudle discusses the Michigan Transportation Asset Management Council, which was created in 2002 by the Michigan Legislature to recommend a comprehensive asset management plan for all state road and bridge projects.

Watch Asset Management Now with Matt Hardy at www.TransportationTV.org and e-mail Matt your comments and suggestions at mhardy AT aashto.org.