WILMINGTON, NC - Today, Congressman Rouzer held a roundtable and press conference with key transportation and infrastructure stakeholders to highlight the need for surface transportation reauthorization.
"Bringing together our small business leaders, transportation professionals, and state and federal partners for a local roundtable and press conference isn’t just about discussion. It’s about delivering results. Surface transportation reauthorization directly impacts the movement of goods and people. Our roads, bridges and rail benefit all aspects of our economy," said Rep. Rouzer. “This collaboration and focus is all about building a stronger, more connected future that will benefit all.”
“The U.S. Chamber is excited to work with Congressman Rouzer and other leaders in Congress to help solve our long term infrastructure challenge. The federal government provides critical support for the roads and bridges that keep America moving and businesses competitive. We appreciate Congressman Rouzer’s leadership as we begin the tough work of reauthorizing the surface transportation bill,” said Rodney Davis, Head of Government Affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce
"We are grateful to Congressman Rouzer for bringing together such a vital group of leaders, from small business owners to state and federal officials, for this important roundtable. The Surface Transportation Reauthorization represents major opportunities to invest in the infrastructure which powers our economy here in Wilmington and across the region," said Natalie English, President and CEO of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. "When we align local insight with federal action, we create smart, sustainable growth that supports commerce, strengthens supply chains, and ensures our businesses, both large and small, can thrive for years to come."
"As a small business owner in Wilmington, I know firsthand how critical reliable infrastructure is to keeping our operations running smoothly, from getting goods delivered on time to ensuring our employees can commute safely," said Tee Nunnelee, President of Coastal Beverage Company. "Having Congressman Rouzer, industry leaders, and government officials come together for this roundtable shows our voices are being heard. I’m proud to be part of the conversation that is shaping the future of our local economy."
Background on Surface Transportation Reauthorization
The upcoming Surface Reauthorization package is a monumental effort with significant implications for our roads, bridges, and the businesses and communities that rely on them.
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (T&I) has held nine hearings to this point in its “America Builds” series. Congressman Rouzer is Chairman of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee and has chaired five of those hearings on topics ranging from how our truckers support American communities to the long-term solvency of the Highway Trust Fund.
T&I has received more than 5,000 requests from stakeholders including municipal governments, transit authorities, industry associations, and companies in the transportation sector. They have also received more than 6,000 requests from individual Member offices in the Highways and Transit portion of the bill alone. This is going to be a member-driven bill.
The Committee is aiming to mark up the bill this Fall and pass it out of the House by the end of the year to begin negotiations with the Senate as soon as possible.
The current Surface Reauthorization Act expires September 30, 2026.
