The Senate bill also includes $4.6 billion this year for the Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works program ($100 million more than the House bill). Additionally, both bills have port-related provisions and funding for highways, rail, navigation and environmental improvements that would create jobs now and pay dividends in the future by making the movement of goods more efficient with less congestion and air pollution.
"These vital measures are timely," says AAPA President Kurt Nagle, "and are the tip of the iceberg in terms of meeting America's infrastructure needs and enhancing the movement of goods flowing into and out of our country. Our nation's seaports and connecting infrastructure need continued higher levels of federal investments that will create jobs, alleviate freight congestion, reduce pollution and deliver prosperity.