US Senate approves short-term surface transportation extension

The United States Senate has approved a short-term extension of expiring surface transportation programs. The measure, passed with a 90-6 vote, extends the renewal deadline from September 30 to December 11 as part of a broader government funding package. This extension aims to provide temporary relief while Congress works toward a long-term reauthorization.

In the House, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved the BUILD America 250 Act (H.R. 8870) with a bipartisan 62-2 vote. This five-year bill proposes various funding shifts. While it allows for a potential 10 percent increase in Transportation Alternatives funding, it also permits states to transfer those funds to other programs. The bill would maintain the Recreational Trails Program at $84 million annually and slightly increase the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program to approximately $3 billion per year for fiscal year 2026.

However, the House bill includes several reductions and changes. The Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant Program would see a phased reduction in funding starting in fiscal year 2027. Additionally, the bill would end the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program, which previously provided competitive grants for bicycle and pedestrian networks. The legislation also clarifies that e-bikes are permitted on federally funded trails, subject to local approval.