Political Quotes

“I want to commend Chairman Olver, Ranking Member Knollenberg and Chairman Obey for their hard work in crafting this bill. One thing I want to specifically focus on here is the provision of $35 million for the Rail Line Relocation and Improvement Program. This was authorized under the SAFETEA-LU transportation bill, but has not been funded up until now. Under this program grants would be provided to a wide range of rail projects throughout the Nation that would fill various critical needs, including safety improvements, congestion mitigation, quiet zone creation, and the facilitation of local economic development. For far too long our Nation's rail infrastructure has gone without adequate investment, and the needs continue to mount. By funding this program, we are taking an important step toward modernizing our Nation's antiquated rail system and helping communities who are dependent on rail lines. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.”