2010 Transportation Appropriations Bill Progressing

The Senate approved its version of the FY 2010 transportation appropriations legislation today. The bill provides $42.5 billion for the highway program, a 4.4 percent increase over FY 2009 and transit program funding of $11.1 billion, a 9 percent increase over FY 2009. The bill also provides $3.5 billion for the Airport Improvement Program, the same amount appropriated the past two years. The House previously approved lower amounts for both the highway and transit programs. The Senate bill includes $1.2 billion for high-speed passenger rail improvements-$2.8 billion less than the House bill. A House/Senate conference committee will be convened soon to work out the differences. Action to extend transportation program authorization is necessary before these appropriated funds can be sent to the states.