Sec. Chao, Sen. Barrasso, Sen. Carper, Rep. Shuster, Rep. DeFazio Speaking Today Sen. Fischer Speaking Thursday

WASHINGTON – An estimated 300 attendees from 44-states are taking part in the 2017 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, Annual Washington Briefing being held at the Washington Court Hotel, near the U.S. Capitol Building.

The conference is focused on new leadership in Washington, from the Trump administration to key members of Congress who will decide if and when new legislation will be drafted to boost investment and streamline the delivery of transportation projects; two of AASHTO’s legislative priorities.

Conference speeches are being recorded on video and posted on AASHTO’s YouTube Channel beginning today at https://goo.gl/tLNGgw. Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, EPW Committee Ranking Member Tom Carper (D-Del.), House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-Pa.) and House T&I Committee Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.) will deliver congressional remarks. Today’s keynote address is to be delivered by USDOT Sec. Elaine Chao.

“We’re thrilled to have Secretary Chao speaking at our event as well Senators Barrasso and Carper who are this year, assuming new roles as the Chairman and Ranking member respectfully, of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee,” said Bud Wright, AASHTO executive director. “It’s very important that our members hear what they’re thinking and it’s equally important for these leaders to hear from our members about AASHTO’s priorities.”

On Thursday, March 2, the keynote address will be delivered by Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security.