| WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, U.S. Reps. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ) introduced the High Risk Rural Roads Safety Grant Program Act of 2021. Westerman and O’Halleran issued the following statements: “As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Road Safety Caucus, I am proud to be an original cosponsor of bipartisan, common sense solutions such as this,” said Westerman. “Rural infrastructure is a critical facet of economic growth and quality of life for those who live in rural and tribal communities. All Americans rely on safe roads to go about their daily lives, and in rural areas, dangerous roads often cannot be avoided. Investing in road safety has significant potential to save lives.” “Rural Arizonans are forced to drive on some of the most dangerous, outdated roads in America, putting First District families at risk every day on their way to work and school,” said O’Halleran. “I’m proud to introduce this urgently-needed, bipartisan legislation that invests in the safety and economic growth of rural and tribal communities by providing the resources and funding necessary to complete critical high-risk rural road projects.” Background Through the Highway Trust Fund, funds made available by the High Risk Rural Roads Safety Grant Program Act of 2021 can be used for 20 eligible safety improving items including road safety audits, intersection safety improvements, the installation of rumble strips or other warning devices, improvement for pedestrian safety, guardrails or barriers, and shoulder widening. The High Risk Rural Roads Safety Grant Program Act of 2021 authorizes $750 million per year for five years for rural road safety improvements, with $150 million set aside for tribal governments. |
