Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) praised passage of the conference report for H.R. 22, the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, which passed the U.S. House with an overwhelming bipartisan majority, 359-65.

“This kind of long term authorization is essential for projects like the North Spokane Corridor and Highway 12 in Walla Walla,” McMorris Rodgers said. “Our roads must be safe and well maintained; it is crucial for our economy and our Eastern Washington way of life.”

This bill improves America’s transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, transit systems, and rail networks. In particular, it expands funding available for bridges in rural communities.

McMorris Rodgers released the following statement:

“Smart investment in our nation’s roads, bridges, and highways and the ability to keep goods moving safely and efficiently, is vital to the health and growth of our economy. When we develop or repair infrastructure today, it must be with a focus on tomorrow. This legislation emphasizes building roads and highways with current technology and the strength to hold for the next 10 years. By cutting red tape and bringing together local governments with private sector partners, this 21st Century plan will create ground-breaking improvements and benefit communities for years to come.”