Cities: Senate Proposal is Positive Step in Race to Transportation Reauthorization

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May 12, 2014, 11:54 ET

WASHINGTON, May 12, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- National League of Cities (NLC) Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony released this statement following the introduction of the MAP-21 Reauthorization Act by U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer (D-CA), David Vitter (R-LA), Tom Carper (D-DE) and John Barrasso (R-WY):

"We are pleased to see the Senate release a bipartisan proposal for a six-year surface transportation reauthorization. Although we are still evaluating the bill, we hope the Senate's proposal will be another step forward in the race to reauthorize the critical funding needed to support the nation's transportation system. A long-term, holistic transportation plan is needed to create jobs, promote long-term economic development and build a foundation for future growth in communities and the nation.

"We applaud the efforts of Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Boxer (D-CA), Ranking Member Vitter (R-LA), Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee Chairman Carper (D-DE) and subcommittee Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-WY). We will continue to work with the Administration and Congress to enact a long-term bill that has dedicated funding and provides local governments with capital and input into decisions affecting local communities."

The bill was introduced on the first day of Transportation Week (May 12-16, 2014), featuring events across the country that explore emerging solutions, innovative approaches and best practices that are being developed to modernize aging infrastructure. NLC is participating in several events including:

Webinar: "Infrastructure Funding and Financing" with NLC and the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA)
Capitol Hill Event: "The Economic Impact of Public Transportation Investment: Stories from Around the Country" with NLC First Vice President Ralph Becker, mayor of Salt Lake City, Utah, and speakers from the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI), American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and the U.S. Travel Association

The National League of Cities (NLC) is dedicated to helping city leaders build better communities. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans. www.nlc.org

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SOURCE National League of Cities