The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced the 2023 budget totals $142 billion, with $37 billion from guaranteed advanced appropriations from the recent Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg testified before the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies about the 2023 DOT budget April 28. According to Transport Topics, Buttigeg noted the 2023 transportation budget prioritizes improving freight access throughout supply chains, as well as financing infrastructure improvements to anticipate and withstand a variety of severe weather events.
“The investments in the President’s Budget make traveling safer, easier, cleaner and more affordable for the American people,” Buttigieg said in a March 28 news release announcing the budget. “From roads, tunnels and bridges, to airport and port improvements, electric vehicle chargers, safe bike lanes and more, we are building a first-rate transportation system for all Americans.”
Buttigeg highlighted several elements of the 2023 DOT budget, including $3 billion for the Highway Safety Improvement Program, $4 billion for RAISE and the new Mega program, $23.6 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration, $4.45 billion of Capital Investment Grants, $17.9 billion for trains and rail systems and $1 billion for electric vehicle chargers, according to the transcript of Buttigieg's testimony.
According to the DOT news release, the infrastructure improvement funding will advance transit projects; help rural, suburban and urban communities follow through with transformational projects; strengthen supply chain infrastructure; maintain safety and efficiency in airspace; improve highway, commercial driver and vehicle safety; build capacity within disadvantaged communities; and fund vital projects in rural communities.
