Hoyer Statement on $150 Million in Federal Metro Funding in House Bill

July 23, 2009

WASHINGTON, DC - Members of Washington Metro Area's House Delegation held a press conference today outside the Capitol South Metro Station on the $150 million in federal funding for Metro included in the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development bill. The measure will be voted on in the House this evening. Below are Congressman Steny Hoyer's prepared remarks.

"It has long been clear that America's Subway deserves a strong commitment from America's federal government. Every day, it carries to work so many of the federal employees who keep our government running-not to mention the families from around the world who come to visit our Nation's Capital.

"On top of that, it's clear that WMATA is in desperate need of funds. Metro's General Manager made it clear that the system has more than $11 billion in capital needs from 2011 to 2020. Those investments are required to support a rapidly growing ridership and improve an aging infrastructure. Without them, Metro will deteriorate unchecked.

"With the passage of this appropriations bill, Congress can do its part. It includes $150 million to fund vitally needed capital and preventive maintenance improvements for WMATA, in accordance with legislation we passed last year authorizing $1.5 billion for WMATA over the next 10 years.

"Last month's tragic crash was a painful reminder of the importance of Metro safety. That is one of the reasons why the bill directs WMATA to first use the funds to address immediate safety shortfalls, from the crashworthiness of cars to the signaling and automatic train control systems.

"This funding is an essential investment in the efficiency and safety of the system that is so integral to the life of this city and the region."

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Issues: Transportation and Infrastructure