Press Release

December 16, 2014
Cardin: Omnibus Spending Bill Benefits Maryland Transportation Infrastructure

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, today highlighted some of the key provisions in the $1.014 trillion funding package passed by Congress that avoids a government shutdown and advances transportation improvements in Maryland and across the nation.

 

“Efficient and dependable transportation infrastructure means quality jobs for Maryland today and in the future, along with improved safety, less gridlock and more options for residents, commuters and visitors,” said Senator Cardin.

 

“The continued safe and reliable operation of Metro promoted by the bill’s full annual funding for WMATA isn’t just important to Maryland, DC and Virginia residents, but is absolutely critical to the function of the federal government. I was pleased to see New Starts funding be prioritized for both the Baltimore Red Line and Purple Line in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties, which require 60 percent or less federal match. Both projects are poised to create jobs and lessen the growing congestion on our roadways. Adding to our regional safety is the full funding the Federal Aviation Administration’s Contract Air Traffic Control Towers program. This FAA program is critical to the viability of control towers at small airports across Maryland. I know I join other elected officials from the Northeast corridor in applauding the $1.39 billion in funding for Amtrak. And the omnibus provides a significant increase in funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission, whose work is critical to the completion of the Appalachian Development System that is serving Western Maryland.”

 

Listed below are some of the important transportation-related provisions in the omnibus spending bill:

 

  • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA): $150 million

 

  • Priority funding for Purple Line and Red Line

 

  • $144.5 million for Contract Air Traffic Control Towers, helping ensure that Maryland’s small airport control towers remain open.

 

  • Amtrak: $1.39 billion

 

  • Dept. of Transportation TIGER Discretionary Grants: $500 million

 

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