Reichert, Kilmer, Herera Beutler Introduce Legislation to Upgrade Infrastructure

Press Release

This week, U.S. Members of Congress Dave Reichert (WA-8), Derek Kilmer (WA-6), and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-3) introduced the National Multimodal Freight Policy and Investment Act, H.R. 3398. The bipartisan legislation creates a multimodal freight investment grant program which would help states and communities reduce truck and rail network delays, eliminate congestion, reduce highway/rail conflicts, and invest in strategic new freight corridors in both urban and rural environments.

Rep. Reichert said "There is 54 million tons of freight moving across our country on any given day, and this number is only going to increase. Our ability to grow our economy, create jobs, and compete with other nations in a global marketplace is dependent on keeping our transportation system in good repair. However, we have a long ways to go in upgrading our infrastructure and making sure our transportation and movement of goods is as efficient as possible. This legislation will take a much-needed step in doing that and I am glad to partner with my Washington state colleagues to lead this effort."

"Washington state's economy depends on transporting goods to market," said Kilmer. "In order to support job growth in our region, we need infrastructure that can efficiently get products out of warehouses and onto rail lines, highways, and waterways so they get into the hands of customers. Right now, too much of our outdated freight infrastructure results in delays and congestion. Our bipartisan legislation calls for a national focus on smart freight policy that will help businesses and keep us competitive in a 21st century economy."

"As the U.S. House and Senate are developing a long-term transportation plan, the movement of freight must be a key component," said Jaime. "The amount of goods moving through Southwest Washington is increasing by the day, and we need our infrastructure to keep up. By making this plan part of a transportation package, we're better allowing our cities and towns to plan for future growth and economic success, and doing it without any additional costs to taxpayers. Whether its separating grade crossings, reducing congestion on the highway, or increasing port capacity, we can ensure commerce is flowing quickly and -- more importantly -- safely."

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