The National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA), via the Highway Materials Group (HMG), sent a letter to Congressional leadership requesting federal support for state Department of Transportation (DOT) agencies who are facing decreasing revenues as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the COVID-19 pandemic has forced tens of millions of Americans to stay home, state DOTs are experiencing a dramatic decline of vehicles on the road and commuters utilizing mass transit. In fact, according to the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHTO), state DOTs are likely to see upwards of a 30% decline in revenues – if not more – over the next 18 months as daily commuting and travel are directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
NSSGA members, whose raw materials are utilized in virtually every infrastructure project, works closely with state DOT agencies across the country on vital local and state public works projects. Understanding the need for federal assistance toward the continuation of public works projects, NSSGA was eager to lead the HMG letter effort following the financial impact data from AASHTO. If state DOTs have to halt their infrastructure projects due to insufficient funds, it would have a compounding effect on an economy already reeling from record unemployment fillings.
In coordination with the HMG letter, NSSGA continues to work with Congressional stakeholders addressing the immediate needs of members regarding their operations and financial impacts. As these economic relief packages are debated and passed, NSSGA maintains its focus for a future infrastructure recovery package as means a to spur job growth, assist our nation’s economic competitiveness and address critical infrastructure needs across the country.