Transportation

I am honored to serve on House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.  This seat will help me to best address the transportation infrastructure problems that are facing the 22nd District.  In a recent report by the Census Bureau listing the fastest growing counties in the U.S. since 2000, Harris county was ranked 2nd and Fort Bend County was ranked 20th.   This rapid growth has put a strain on all modes of transportation in the 22nd District and Southeast Texas as a whole.  I believe that we need a comprehensive regional transportation plan, that addresses this growth not just over the next twenty or twenty-five years, but for the next fifty years, and further into the future. 

Of particular concern to me is the railroad infrastructure in our District.  As Houston has grown, much of the track that was initially laid outside of town has become surrounded by homes and businesses.  This poses serious congestion problems and safety risks.  As a member of the Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee, I am working to address these problems in a way that will be acceptable to the communities while not impeding the rail industry that is so vital to the economy in Southeast Texas.  Further, I will continue to support the expansion of the already successful light-rail system.  Light-rail and commuter-rail are very important to help relieve congestion on our highways.

The Port of Houston is vital to the economy of the region, the state of Texas, and the entire United States.  It is important that we in Congress ensure that the Port has the resources it needs to maintain the existing infrastructure and expand to meet the demands of increasing freight traffic.

Houston is also experiencing congestion problems in it major airports.  I sit on the Aviation Subcommittee which will help me to better serve the aviation industry in our District.  Through my seat on this subcommittee I will assist in the expansion of these airports without putting a financial burden on the airlines, which employ so many residents in the area.

Transportation is a top priority of mine as your Member of Congress.  A better transportation system in Southeast Texas will boost to the local economy, add more jobs, and reduce annoying traffic congestion for commuters.