By a bi-partisan vote of 74-22, the U.S. Senate has passed S. 1813, legislation that would support $109 billion of transportation programs over a two year period.  The bill now goes to the House, where a March 31 deadline looms on the latest extension of an act that expired nearly two years ago.

While not perfect, the Senate bill was amended along the way to strengthen local control, put in place a program similar to the current Transportation Enhancements program, reinstate funding for off-system bridges and protect MPO’s from state control.  A full description of amendments  is available. 

As noted above the latest extension of the current act expires on March 31.  Please contact your congressional representative and tell them to not only support the bill but demand that House leadership take the bill up on the floor.  The time is now!  A copy of the League letter to the Michigan delegation is below.

s1813_congressional letter2_mar2012.pdf (167.48 kb)

Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail