Obama Administration proposal, while needed, is no substitute for long–overdue six–year surface transportation bill, association head notes
The following statement is from Stephen E. Sandherr, chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America:
"The President clearly appreciates that the infrastructure–focused portions of the stimulus were effective in boosting employment and helping rebuild America's aging infrastructure. And while the most effective sequel to the stimulus is passing a fully funded six–year surface transportation bill, countless thousands of construction workers will have a better chance of retaining their jobs thanks to this proposal than they otherwise would once the stimulus runs its course.
"Like others, we are anxious to learn more details about the President's proposal, and hope that this proposal receives the bipartisan consideration and support investing in our country's economic infrastructure ought to merit. After all, the American people are counting on both parties to begin tackling the nation's $2.2 trillion infrastructure deficit.
"Meanwhile, we will continue our vigorous work in support of swift passage of the fuller, long–overdue, surface transportation bill. Those efforts include a third "Sick of Aging Roads?" event, in collaboration with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other groups involved in the Americans for Transportation Mobility and the Transportation Construction Coalition, we will hold Wednesday in Des Moines. We also will continue working to ensure the nation's water, energy and other infrastructure needs are met."
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