Today, Congressman Bill Foster voted for H.R. 5021, the Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2014. The legislation will provide much needed funding for the Highway and Transit Trust Fund and reauthorize the Surface Transportation programs through May 31, 2015.
"While I am disappointed this is another short-term patch instead of a long-term funding bill, I am relieved that the House was able to pass this critical jobs bill. The Highway Trust Fund supports construction projects throughout the United States, including important investments in the 11th Congressional District," said Foster. "Investing in transportation and infrastructure is essential to ensuring businesses have the resources they need to thrive. While this was an important step to protect the Highway Trust Fund from going bankrupt, and to continue planning for long-term construction projects, it is critical that we pass a funding bill that addresses our long-term needs."
Illinois receives nearly 75 percent of its funding for road projects from the Highway Trust fund.
The business community has called on Congress to pass multi-year transportation funding legislation to support states, local municipalities and contractors who need long-term security for transportation projects.