Leaders from across the transportation and construction industries gathered on Capitol Hill last week to encourage lawmakers to move forward with a long-term federal highway funding bill that they say is essential for maintaining the nation’s infrastructure and supporting economic growth.
The June 23 briefing, organized by the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA), attracted nearly 100 congressional staff members and transportation stakeholders, filling the meeting room to capacity. Representatives from several major industry organizations discussed the proposed BUILD America 250 Act, a bipartisan highway reauthorization bill currently making its way through Congress.
The legislation, approved by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in May with broad bipartisan support, proposes approximately $580 billion in funding over five years for surface transportation programs. In addition to increased federal investment in highways and bridges, the proposal includes measures aimed at improving work zone safety, streamlining project permitting, and supporting more efficient infrastructure development.
Industry leaders stressed that passing a long-term transportation bill would provide greater certainty for state transportation departments, contractors, engineers, and local governments responsible for planning and delivering infrastructure projects.
Nile Elam, Vice President of Government Affairs at NAPA, said the strong attendance at the Capitol Hill briefing reflected widespread interest in the future of federal transportation funding.
“The level of participation and engagement shows how important this legislation is to the transportation community,” Elam said. “A long-term highway bill gives states and contractors the confidence they need to plan projects, invest in equipment, and support a skilled workforce.”
During the event, speakers highlighted the broader economic benefits of sustained infrastructure investment, noting that reliable transportation networks support commerce, improve public safety, and create employment opportunities across the country.
Jimmy Ballard, Director of Coalitions for the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, provided attendees with an overview of the bill’s development and legislative progress. He noted that the proposal represents years of bipartisan collaboration and emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum as the measure advances through Congress.
The discussion concluded with a question-and-answer session focused on the bill’s next steps. According to organizers, the proposal is expected to move through additional House committees before potentially reaching the House floor for consideration later this year.
Supporters are urging Congress to act before the current federal surface transportation authorization expires on September 30, 2026. Industry groups warn that delays could create uncertainty for infrastructure planning and funding, affecting transportation projects nationwide.
Many construction and transportation organizations view the BUILD America 250 Act as an opportunity to provide long-term stability for federal highway programs while addressing ongoing infrastructure needs through sustained investment and updated transportation policies.
