ATSSA joins 70 groups in asking Trump to prioritize transportation funding to help economic rebound

ATSSA joined 70 groups involved in and directly impacted by the nation’s transportation infrastructure in asking President Donald Trump to prioritize funding for the nation’s roads, bridges and public transportation as part of his efforts to jump-start the economy.

“As you know, there are few public sector actions that can deliver the same level of short- and long-term ‘economic shot in the arm’ as transportation infrastructure investment. Increased highway, bridge, public transportation and safety program funding will support direct job creation and retention. This will put in place capital assets that enhance supply chain efficiency and access to jobs, services, materials and markets for decades,” the 71 groups said in their letter to Trump on Friday.

The groups signing the letter include those directly involved in building and maintaining the nation’s transportation network such as the American Road & Transportation Builders Association, the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association, the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association, the American Iron and Steel Institute and the American Council of Engineering Companies.

They also include those dependent on the nation’s transportation network to operate in a safe, well-maintained manner such as the National Retail Federation, the National Association of Home Builders, the American Bus Association and the National Association of Truckstop Operators.

“We stand by your side ready to rebuild the highways, bridges and public transportation systems that are so critical to the nation’s post-coronavirus rebound,” the groups told Trump in their letter.

The letter addresses the need for funding, the importance of timing and that congressional efforts have already laid a foundation for action.

“The Senate and House efforts to advance multi-year highway, transit and safety program reauthorization investment proposals provide the road map to fulfill the infrastructure vision you have championed since the 2016 election. And, the overwhelming bipartisan support for infrastructure investment is unparalleled,” the letter to Trump states.

“With state and local transportation budgets reeling from COVID-19-releated travel reductions, increased federal surface transportation investment is needed now more than ever. In fact, failing to deliver an infrastructure initiative would not only be a missed opportunity, but could lead to declines in transportation improvement efforts that could be felt for years to come.”

ATSSA has been consistently advocating for roadway safety infrastructure funding and with the pandemic sees an urgent need and opportunity.

“Now is the time for Congress to invest in roadway safety infrastructure projects as we move from pandemic relief to economic recovery,” said ATSSA Vice President of Government Relations Nathan Smith. “ATSSA members are working every day to ensure that roads are open and safe not only for the traveling public, but also for the healthcare workers, emergency responders, National Guard and truckers who are delivering critical goods and supplies to grocery stores and hospitals around the country.”