Cohen Introduces Two Aerotropolis Bills
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN-9) recently introduced two bills he authored to spur development of aerotropolis transportation systems in Memphis and across the country, which would improve shipping services, spur economic growth and create jobs.
“The Memphis Aerotropolis is more than a transportation network – it is an economic development engine for the Mid-South,” said Congressman Steve Cohen. “The need to ship and receive goods more quickly and over longer distances is increasing by the day. 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 the 21st Century global economy.”
The Aerotropolis Act of 2011 would amend the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA–LU) to ensure projects that assist in the establishment of aerotropolis transportation systems are eligible to receive funds under the Projects of National and Regional Significance Program.
The second measure Congressman Cohen authored -- the Leading and Expediting Aerotropolis Development (LEAD) Act -- would direct the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to establish a grant program that would provide funding assistance to local entities for planning, design, environmental review, and land acquisition activities for aerotropolis transportation system projects. By providing a small influx of money in the preconstruction phase, the U.S. government could help localities dramatically expedite project delivery, enhance U.S. competitiveness, and create jobs.
Both measures have the potential to provide millions of dollars in funding to the Memphis Aerotropolis to fund projects like the 3rd Bridge, I69, and I22/78 Corridor.
Language authored by Congressman Cohen was recently added to the House Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization proposal -- an important first step in creating a comprehensive federal policy to support aerotropolis development. This language further established Congressman Cohen as the nation’s aerotropolis leader and solidifies Memphis’ leading role in moving the aerotropolis concept forward in America.