Senator Collins Announces $45 Million for Maine Bridges
Senator Collins was a member of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the bipartisan infrastructure law
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) announced today that Maine will receive a total of $45 million to maintain and reconstruct bridges across the state. This funding was authorized through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Senator Collins, the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, was part of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the text of the bipartisan infrastructure law. Under the law, Maine will receive $225 million over five years to fix bridges across the state.
This funding will help to address the backlog of repairs needed for Maine’s transportation network. Maine currently has 315 bridges considered to be in poor condition.
“Bridges are essential pieces of our transportation network that connect Mainers to homes, jobs, schools, shopping, and health care; allow manufacturers to ship their goods to market; and link communities together. When bridges do not receive the proper maintenance and require closure, Mainers can be forced to endure lengthy detours, particularly in rural areas,” said Senator Collins. “As the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, improving the safety and efficiency of Maine’s transportation system is among my top priorities. This funding will help address Maine’s substantial backlog of deteriorated bridges, preserve and create jobs, and benefit families and businesses across our state.”
FHWA announced today that it is providing over $27 billion to states and tribal transportation facilities over five years. The program represents the largest investment ever made in fixing bridges. Nationwide, the program is expected to help repair approximately 15,000 bridges.
