Balderson’s new bill promotes advanced transportation technologies

U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson (R-OH) has introduced legislation to promote advanced technology in America’s transportation systems, including across the country’s rural areas. 

“Ohioans are proud to be a national leader in smart mobility and advanced transportation research,” Rep. Balderson tweeted on Oct. 29. “I’m excited to keep working with local infrastructure leaders to continue state-of-the-art work to improve road safety and transit efficiency in Ohio.” 

Rep. Balderson on Oct. 13 sponsored the Strengthening Methods to Advance Research and Technology (SMART) in Transportation Act, H.R. 8579, which would establish a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) program to provide grants to eligible entities to deploy, install and operate advanced transportation technologies, according to the congressional record bill summary. Among the three Republican cosponsors of the bill is U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL).

If enacted, H.R. 8579, would require that no less than 20 percent of DOT grant funds be reserved for projects serving rural areas, according to the summary.

“In central Ohio, we’re proud of our history as a national leader in smart mobility and advanced transportation research,” said Rep. Balderson, who serves on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, in a statement. “I’ve seen firsthand the state-of-the-art research and work being done in this community that will improve road safety and create more efficient transit options throughout Ohio. 

“I’m excited to continue working with our local transportation thought leaders like DriveOhio and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) to continue these efforts,” the congressman added.

“The bill reflects a deep appreciation of our world-class automotive research and development ecosystem, with the Transportation Research Center, US 33 Smart Mobility Corridor, and OSU Center for Automotive Research,” said DriveOhio Executive Director Howard Wood. “As we develop the transportation system of the 21st century, communities and institutions from across the State of Ohio will benefit from this legislation.”