Sen. Dodd Lauds Congress, Mike Thompson for Federal Infrastructure Bill

CALISTOGA – Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, made the following comments today at a press conference with U. S. Rep. Mike Thompson and local leaders about the passage of the federal $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill and its benefit to the North Bay:

“This federal infrastructure legislation is nothing short of transformational,” Sen. Dodd said. “It will ensure we can fix our deteriorating roads, address traffic congestion, improve public transit and expand internet access to everyone. The work will generate hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, energizing our economy. Kudos to Mike Thompson and the California congressional delegation for their diligence in getting this passed.”

Sen. Dodd said investing in California’s long-neglected infrastructure is critical, especially as the state faces the devastating effects of climate change. Sea-level rise is already affecting one of at least one major commuter route, Highway 37. This year at the state level, legislators committed to making historic improvements to this important artery that will keep the lanes of travel open for future generations.

Sen. Dodd secured $5 million for environmental mitigation, marsh restoration and sea-level rise protection along 37. In addition, he secured $3 million for design and planning of interim improvements including adding a lane on Highway 37 between Sears Point and Vallejo.

He said the federal dollars will complement this work and build upon what state and local governments have done in this and other areas, including expanding broadband and improving public transportation lines, including commuter rail.

“As a state legislator, I look forward to collaborating with our federal partners in the areas where we have discretion over these funds,” Sen. Dodd said. “I will work hard to get the maximum benefit for California, and to get the money out as equitably and as efficiently as possible.”

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.