Shuster says freight corridors a priority this year

Rep. Bud Shuster (R-PA), a key member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, says this is the year for the modernization of freight corridors, according to a report in Bloomberg News.

“Freight is very important. And we’re looking at putting dollars back into the corridors,” said Shuster.

Shuster’s committee will be a major player when Congress looks at reauthorization of the federal transportation legislation, which expires in May.

One recommendation floated by Republican leaders that is gaining attention is reducing the environmental review period for big-ticket infrastructure projects. Industry leaders often tell lawmakers that certain environmental rules and permitting delay construction projects.

In the Senate, Commerce, Science and Transportation Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) has indicated he will examine proposals this year so industries can improve the distribution of freight.