Issue Position: Transportation & Infrastructure

Issue Position

In a state as geographically expansive as Nebraska, highways certainly do more than just get travelers from one place to another. They serve as critical transportation routes that connect our cities and towns, while encouraging economic development and commerce.

Since joining the United States Senate in 2001, Senator Nelson has been a strong supporter of making sure Nebraska gets its fair share of federal roads funding. In the Safe Accountable Flexible Efficient Transportation Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), Senator Nelson supported legislation that authorized almost $1.3 billion in federal funds for Nebraska over fiscal years 2005 through 2009. Drivers across the state see this money at work every day, from highways being resurfaced to major interstate reconstruction.

Senator Nelson has also worked with fellow Nebraskans to use congressionally directed funding to identify worthwhile projects that spur economic development and address critical transportation needs. Senator Nelson discloses all of these projects on this website for his constituents' review.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

During debate to craft the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (also known as the "stimulus bill"), Senator Nelson was a strong advocate to make sure an investment in our nation's infrastructure was a key piece of any stimulus legislation. While working with his colleagues from across the aisle, Senator Nelson was a leader in making sure the bill focused on "jobs, jobs, jobs." The stimulus bill provided a two-for-one opportunity: create jobs while taking a step towards rebuilding the state's aging infrastructure.

The stimulus bill directed over $250 million in federal funding for infrastructure projects across the state.

Updated: May 2009

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