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ECONOMIC RECOVERY

Despite the fact the locks and dams did not receive their much needed makeover, Rep. Steve Kagen (D-WI), who serves on both the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, says the stimulus package gives the feed and grain industry plenty to look forward to. Kagen stands firmly behind the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

“Investing in our transportation infrastructure is vital for us to build a better future and spur recovery,” he says. “It creates jobs and is important for businesses that rely on our rails and ports for commerce.”

Swift allocation of funds was a high priority for Kagen. The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act requires that half of the transportation infrastructure funds be allocated within 180 days after enactment of the legislation.

“We fought for this provision because I have seen the speed of government and I know people cannot wait that long,” Kagen says.

The billions of dollars to be invested in new infrastructure this year marks the largest increase in funding for our nation’s roads and bridges, and railways since the 1950s. Each state, local and tribal government is eligible for highway formula funding.

These entities may also apply for competitive grants (minimum $20 million, maximum $300 million) for highway and bridge projects, public transportation projects, passenger and freight rail projects and port infrastructure investments.

Although high-speed passenger trains are a high priority, Kagen hopes freight railways will be updated, as well.

“Updates to rail infrastructure could lead to a better quality rail industry in America and encourage more companies to join the marketplace, thus increasing competition,” Kagen adds.

There is also money available for seaport infrastructure. Small shipyards can apply for the $100 million in nationwide competitive grants to improve infrastructure, but the Maritime Administration intends to award no more than 25% of the funds to shipyards with more than 600 production employees. Applications are due to the Maritime Administration on April 20, 2009.