Transportation

“The need to ship and receive goods more quickly and over longer distances is increasing by the day,” said Congressman Cohen. “Establishing aerotropolis transportation systems in Memphis and across the country will spur economic growth, create jobs, improve our shipping transportation network, and enable us to compete more effectively in a 21st century global economy.”

“When it comes to moving boxes and freight, no city in America rivals Memphis’s efficiency and effectiveness,” Congressman Cohen said. “However, when it comes to transporting our own citizens, Memphis has a long way to go. The legislation I have introduced will help Memphians have mobility throughout the city.”

“I’m pleased to know that the Federal Railroad Administration is committed to undertaking this feasibility study next year. As added insurance, I pushed to include additional funding in next year’s transportation budget to ensure that there will be no further delay,” Congressman Cohen said. “Memphis is the transportation hub of the nation. We’re home to the largest cargo airline, highways, rail yards, the Mississippi River, but we don’t have high speed rail.

This afternoon the House of Representatives passed a joint Senate-House compromise to HR 3183, the Fiscal Year 2010 Energy and Water Appropriations Act. The bill contains $1,369,000 for the Army Corps of Engineers to dredge the mouth of Memphis Harbor (McKellar Lake) and $354,000 for Wolf River Harbor maintenance. The measure also includes $500,000 for the University of Memphis to invest in the use of biofuel micro-refineries that will use biomass and other waste to generate sustainable energy.

“This is great news for the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority. Memphis International Airport is crucial to keeping people and commerce flowing throughout our nation. These federal funds will make sure that the Airport can continue its important role for many years to come,” Congressman Cohen said. “Investing in these kinds of improvements will better enable us to attract tourists and business opportunities, and help create much-needed jobs in our community.”