The Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) authorized under TEA-21 enhances the feasibility of PPP financing by providing subordinated debt to projects on advantageous terms. SAFETEA-LU included amendments to TIFIA to improve its suitability to the PPP environment. It expands the types of eligible projects and expressly authorizes direct assistance to private operators. In addition, for existing eligible projects, it permits refinancing of project debt, provided a portion of the refinance proceeds is used to complete, expand or upgrade the project. The new private operator of Virginia's Pocahontas Parkway is expected to take advantage of the refinancing provision to extend the highway to the Richmond International Airport.