Media Center - Hinojosa Secures $2.6 Million In Federal Funding For Infrastructure Improvements In The Valley: Congressman Ruben Hinojosa Representing the 15th District of Texas

HINOJOSA SECURES $2.6 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS IN THE VALLEY

Washington, DC (November 13, 2007) – Congressman Rubén Hinojosa has helped secure critical appropriations that would give South Texas a $2.6 million infusion of federal funding, including critical money for highway and airport construction. The investments garnered for South Texas include:

$1 million to keep the I-69 project moving forward

$850,000 for the Edinburg International Airport for a runway extension, the construction of a taxiway, and other upgrades

$500,000 for the addition of mid-valley bus routes to the current transit system in Hidalgo County

$250,000 for the construction of a larger San Juan Public Library at a new site

“This much-needed funding will address key transportation and infrastructure issues in our region,” said Hinojosa. “It will enable our communities to better handle the extraordinary growth in South Texas and improve the livelihoods of all its residents.”

The money was included in H.R. 3074, the Transportation-Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Conference Report, which the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed today. The $100 billion legislation supports critical transportation and housing projects across America and includes $40 billion for highway funding, $1 billion for dilapidated bridges, and $3.5 billion for airport efficiency, modernization and safety grants.

The bill also includes a timely 500 percent increase in funds to alleviate problems due to the sub-prime mortgage crisis by providing housing counseling. Homeless veterans, the disabled, and other vulnerable populations will also benefit from 15,500 new housing vouchers that will provide safe, affordable housing around the nation.

The bill now goes to the President’s desk for his signature.

###