Wisconsin Transportation Leaders Praise Senator Baldwin’s Work on Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act

Washington, D.C. – As the U.S. House of Representatives approaches a vote on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, transportation leaders across Wisconsin are praising U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin for her leadership on the bipartisan legislation.

The bipartisan legislation provides a major federal investment to create good paying jobs and rebuild Wisconsin’s infrastructure—including roads, bridges, water infrastructure—as well as expand access to affordable and reliable high speed broadband. The bipartisan legislation also includes strong Buy American standards that Senator Baldwin championed to support Wisconsin workers, manufactures and businesses.

“The working men and women of Wisconsin’s building trades and the contractors that employ them greatly appreciate Senator Baldwin’s leadership on the bipartisan infrastructure bill,” said Robb Kahl, Executive Director of Construction Business Group. “Senator Baldwin’s tireless efforts will benefit everyone in Wisconsin and we welcome the opportunity to help rebuild, improve and expand our critical infrastructure throughout the state.”

“The Wisconsin County Highway Association (WCHA) applauds Senator Baldwin for her strong support of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Daniel J. Fedderly, Executive Director of Wisconsin County Highway Association. “This legislation is critical in bringing Federal funding to Wisconsin’s local roads and bridges. The Local Road System in Wisconsin is the foundation of transportation, moving goods and services throughout the State driving the opportunity for Economic recovery.”

“Passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will benefit the people of Wisconsin and the nation’s economy for generations to come. This historic legislation will bring long-overdue investments to a broad range of critical needs in the built environment, from roads, bridges, water systems and airports to greener, more sustainable and more resilient energy,” said Chris Klein, President and CEO of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Wisconsin. “These investments are foundational to a growing economy, and we thank Senator Baldwin for her leadership in helping to secure passage of this landmark legislation.” 

“The future of Wisconsin’s maritime economy and proud shipping industry depends on the resiliency and reliability of our transportation infrastructure. That’s why the Wisconsin Commercial Ports Association strongly supports the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Adam Tindall-Schlicht, President of the Wisconsin Commercial Ports Association and Director of Port Milwaukee. “The infrastructure package directs billions of dollars in port infrastructure improvements that will benefit Wisconsin for decades to come by building up maritime infrastructure, supporting economic growth and creating clean-energy jobs. We sincerely thank Senator Baldwin for her leadership to invest in our infrastructure and move Wisconsin forward.”

“The passage of the bipartisan infrastructure bill is a win for Wisconsin Laborers and for all working families,” said John Schmitt, President and Business Manager of Wisconsin Laborers’ District Council. “This is a once in a generation investment for Wisconsin’s infrastructure, and our union thanks Senator Baldwin and members of the Wisconsin House delegation who voted to invest in our infrastructure and create thousands of jobs with good wages and benefits.” 

“We have long worked with leaders on both sides of the aisle to promote gender diversity in the trucking industry and are thankful to Senator Baldwin and other legislators who have listened to the needs of women in the industry,” said Ellen Voie, President and CEO of Women In Trucking Association, Inc. “While the road is long yet, we view the inclusion of these measures as a major accomplishment.”

“I wish to express my gratitude to Senator Baldwin for supporting the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act which will benefit all Americans from so many directions. Much like the New Deal of years ago, Americans shall once again enjoy safe and efficient infrastructure throughout our great Country,” said Terry McGowan, General Vice President of IUOE and President and Business Manager of Local 139. “And what better stimulus program than to not only invest in our country, but to invest in our workers, the men and women who have dedicated their lives to hard work by packing their lunch box, putting on their work boots and facing the everyday challenges and hard work that it takes to build America back better!”

“The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provides long-overdue investments to help rebuild our nation’s and Wisconsin’s infrastructure,” said Debby Jackson, Executive Director of Transportation Development Association. “The increased investment in road, public transportation, rail, port, and airport infrastructure will lead to more jobs, greater economic competitiveness, enhanced mobility, and improved safety.”   

“Wisconsin Clean Cities is always pleased with any activity that furthers and supports our sustainable transportation mission,” said Lorrie Lisek, Executive Director of Wisconsin Clean Cities. “Advancing the adoption of EVs through support for EV infrastructure reduces our dependence on imported oil, reduces tailpipe emissions, improves air quality, supports Wisconsin jobs and improves quality of life for all those who live, work and play in our great state.”

"Working over 40 years on the improvement of Infrastructure at the city, county and state level, now more than ever, investment in Infrastructure is critically needed after years of neglect as reported by the American Society of Civil Engineers,” said Clark Wantoch, Executive Director of Wisconsin Concrete Pipe Association. “This investment in Infrastructure will also spring board our economy that is so desperately needed!" 

“The investments toward infrastructure outlined in this bill will benefit everyone in Wisconsin,” said Tom Wagener, Executive Committee Chair of Wisconsin Public Transportation. “Public Transportation can continue to be a solution for access to jobs, health care and critical services if we continue to work at insuring that communities have the resources they need,”

“The Wisconsin Airport Management Association supports the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Reinvestment in our nation’s airport infrastructure is critical to maintain the world’s best National Airspace System,” said Brian Grefe, President of the Wisconsin Airport Management Association. “This is particularly true in the state of Wisconsin, where airports generate economic impact to each of their respective communities and as a whole contribute over $6.9 billion in annual economic output, and over $3.5 billion in personal income. Significant investment in the eight commercial service airports, and the 90 general aviation airports in the state is critical to stay competitive on a global scale.”

Senator Baldwin’s statement on Senate passage of the bipartisan legislation in August can be found here.