The current goal appears to be to try and hammer out a highway reauthorization bill by August. Obama has tossed out a $565 billion (six years)figure and Ray LaHood is calling it a "jobs bill". The House currently appears to be at $254 billion (six years; $42 billion/yr as compared to $49 billion/yr under current bill). Everyone seems to agree that it would be useful to come to some sort of six-year agreement. Federal gas tax increase appears to be off of the table.
It should be an interesting spring and summer ...
http://www.joc.com/press-release/house-ti-committees-fy-2012-views-and-estimates-offers-first-glimpse-committes-thinkin
"jobs bill" reference: http://www.talkradionews.com/news/2011/3/29/dot-secretary-says-transportation-bill-is-a-job-bill.html
John Mica claims no more extensions: http://thehill.com/blogs/transportation-report/highways-bridges-and-roads/148129-lawmaker-no-more-highway-bill-extensions-after-this-one
More spending on highways leads to more construction jobs for these projects. After completion of said projects, new businesses relocate near the project.