Transportation

Transportation: Challenges and Solutions

Home to the largest passenger airport in the world, Metro Atlanta is the economic engine of the southeast.  It is an honor to represent the fastest-growing urban community in the country.  Unfortunately, with an economic and population explosion come logistical and commuting challenges for our community.  In order to continue to attract jobs and new residents to Atlanta, we must tackle our transportation challenges head-on.  We must reduce congestion, plan smart growth, and promote safety.

I began my congressional career on what was then the Public Works and Transportation Committee before moving to the Ways and Means Committee.  Luckily, I am still able to work on transportation through financing our nation’s roads and airspace. I use my seniority on the powerful Ways and Means Committee to address issues related to transportation safety and workers, for example, fighting for passengers' rights and fair and equal distribution of air travel taxes during the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization process.

Over the years, I have successfully secured millions of dollars in funding to improve and expand Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) Smart Card and Clean Bus programs, the Georgia North Line extension, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and the Metro Atlanta water and sewer initiatives.  Much work remains at the local level to secure adequate funding for these key modes of our transportation and infrastructure.

Any growth must consider our current and future needs.  Years ago, I initiated the fight against the explosion of billboards on American highways.  I developed the framework for smoke-free transportation facilities that are now a national standard and led the congressional fight against visible pollution.   I am also a leader on road, aviation, and motorcoach safety. 

These fights are ongoing.  Transportation solutions need to be environmentally-friendly and help our communities thrive.   We must have walkable, bikable, safe neighborhoods with affordable transit alternatives.   Transportation is the key to keeping Atlanta as at the forefront of our region.