Neilson’s statement regarding transportation funding in Pa. budget

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    July 12, 2024 | 9:29 AM

Pennsylvania House Transportation Committee Majority Chair Ed Neilson made the following statement today regarding increases in the budget for transportation funding and mass-transit funding.

“Today’s budget agreement includes a lot to celebrate as it relates to transportation, including an increase of $110 million for highway maintenance, an increase of $75 million for road and bridge maintenance, and an additional $50 million for road and bridge construction – these are real investments to deliver a smoother, safer commute for everyone.

“I am proud of what the House Democratic majority has accomplished in this budget for transportation, but this is only the beginning. After years of underfunding transit, today’s budget agreement includes a funding increase of $80.5 million for transit while we continue to negotiate a long-term funding solution.

“This is the first time in over a decade that we have successfully increased state funding for transit, and it never would have happened without our House Democratic majority. This is a down payment and a promise to keep working and negotiating so we can fully fund our transit agencies in all 67 counties so that our residents in urban, suburban and rural communities can continue to have affordable and accessible ways to get to work, school, medical appointments and wherever they need to go.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues over the coming months to reach a long-term solution to keep Pennsylvania moving forward.”