Bill would extend funding to University Transportation Centers

U.S. Reps. Carlos Curbelo (R-FL) and Daniel Lipinski (D-IL) teamed up recently to introduce legislation authorizing funding for the University Transportation Centers (UTC) Program for fiscal years 2016-2021, a research effort meant to help revitalize the nation’s infrastructure.

Proving the program’s value over the years, more than 16,000 students nationwide have conducted research through UTC projects since 1987, compiling crucial information meant to improve the country’s infrastructure.

“Currently, 125 universities fall under UTC programming, including Florida International University (FIU), which I am honored to represent in Congress,” Curbelo said. “The new research conducted by UTCs is crucial to developing future technologies in bridge construction, autonomous vehicles and propulsion systems.”

Curbelo explained that the bill would authorize the UTC program to the tune of $72.5 million per year from FY2016-21, which remains consistent with the level of the most recent surface transportation bill, which was signed into law three years ago.

“Many of our country’s transportation developments began as UTC projects, and by investing in funding, we guarantee that today’s research becomes tomorrow’s innovation,” Curbelo said. “I thank my colleague Rep. Lipinski for his continued leadership on transportation issues and for joining me in this effort to support UTC programs.”