ND North News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, led a hearing focused on the Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill. The discussion revolved around three bipartisan bills spearheaded by Cramer and his colleagues.

The first bill, S.1733, the Highway Funding Transferability Improvement Act, aims to increase the flexibility for state Departments of Transportation (DOT) by allowing them to transfer a higher percentage of funds between formula categories. This change would enable states to better prioritize high-need infrastructure projects.

The second piece of legislation, S.1167, the Transportation Asset Management Simplification Act, seeks to reduce administrative burdens on state DOTs by streamlining asset management reporting requirements.

The third bill discussed was S.1828, the Safe Routes Improvement Act, which requires each state DOT to appoint a Safe Routes to School Program coordinator. This initiative is designed to improve accessibility for communities across North Dakota and beyond.

Cramer emphasized the importance of well-maintained routes like Interstate 94 in facilitating interstate commerce and supporting local economies. He noted that North Dakota's roads are crucial for transporting commodities from rural areas to larger markets.

During the hearing, Chad Orn from the North Dakota Department of Transportation shared insights into infrastructure challenges in North Dakota. Marisa Jones from the Safe Routes Partnership highlighted successful projects within small towns utilizing Safe Routes funding.

The hearing also addressed work zone safety concerns with suggestions for legislative improvements discussed by Samantha Biddle from Maryland's Department of Transportation and Chad Orn.

Senator Cramer concluded by reiterating his commitment to advancing practical policies aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure efficiency and effectiveness through bipartisan cooperation within the EPW Committee.