Mike Thompson: “I strongly support the words of my good friend and colleague from Tennessee. I, too, would like to thank Chairwoman…”

“I strongly support the words of my good friend and colleague from Tennessee. I, too, would like to thank Chairwoman Murray and Ranking Member Shelby for their leadership on the Transportation Subcommittee. I give my full support to developing effective public transportation programs that serve the needs of all Tennesseans. Our public transit systems have not historically seen the level of federal support they need to develop properly. As our cities grow and our transportation needs change 279 active urban transit buses now exceed their 12-year useful service life. Additionally, there are 218 rural transit vans with mileage in excess of the 100,000-mile service life. The $12 million funding level provided in the House will improve public safety and reduce maintenance costs while ensuring that an adequate infrastructure is in place to better serve all the counties of our growing state. It is my sincere hope that the Conference Committee will restore the full funding level recommended by the House.”