Commerce Democrats Highlight Historic Investments in Our Nation’s Infrastructure
November 15, 2024
On the third anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), Senate Commerce Committee Democrats are highlighting some of the impacts this once-in-a-generation investment in America’s infrastructure is having across the country. Since 2021, the law has channeled $568 billion across all 50 states for more than 66,000 projects and awards in critical infrastructure investments through many Commerce Committee-authorized grant programs, modernizing America's transportation networks and strengthening local economies.
WASHINGTON STATE
Sen. Cantwell secured funding to replace the I-5 Bridge
Committee Chair Sen. Maria Cantwell has secured a total of $2.1 billion from the Cantwell-authored Mega Program and the Bridge Investment Program in the BIL to replace the Interstate 5 Bridge in Southwest Washington. The I-5 Bridge is a crucial linchpin in both the regional and national economy and plays a vital role in transporting freight along the I-5 corridor. According to the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council, an average of 131,747 vehicles crossed the bridge each weekday in 2021. Despite the bridge’s importance, it’s rated the worst truck bottleneck in Washington and the fifth worst on the West Coast, with seven to 10 hours of congestion during the morning and evening commute periods.
"Washingtonians are seeing many benefits from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, from a new passenger terminal at Spokane International Airport, to helping replace the outdated I-5 bridge, to billions in new energy grid upgrades, to restoring salmon habitat, to major new port investments that will boost exports and local jobs. All these historic infrastructure investments are making our economy stronger and more resilient, and should be continued regardless of the change in Administration,” said Sen. Cantwell.