2026 Convention Key Issues Preview-Key Issues Preview Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

ACEC’s briefing centered on key infrastructure issues for its upcoming Capitol Hill fly-in: surface transportation reauthorization, water infrastructure funding, and permitting reform. Leaders stressed that the timing is critical because Congress is expected to act on major bills soon, possibly beginning with a House surface transportation vote around May 13. ACEC urged members to press lawmakers on the urgency of passing long-term legislation this year before the election season limits action.<br /><br />For transportation, ACEC is pushing for sustained federal investment in roads, bridges, transit, rail, and ports, plus reforms that encourage lump-sum contracting, standardized procurement, and more efficient administration of local grants. The House is discussing a five-year bill in the $550–$600 billion range.<br /><br />For water, ACEC highlighted the expiring authority for State Revolving Funds (SRFs), WIFIA, and other EPA programs, as well as the likely inclusion of these issues in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). ACEC also wants increased funding and a technical fix to align Army Corps civil works fee caps with military-side engineering rules.<br /><br />On permitting reform, speakers said the goal is to streamline environmental reviews, reduce duplication, clarify judicial review, improve interagency coordination, and modernize permitting through digital tools. They emphasized that bipartisan Senate agreement will be necessary.<br /><br />Throughout, ACEC urged advocates to localize their message by discussing projects in their districts and states, and to share photos and feedback from meetings.

Keywords

infrastructure

surface transportation

water funding

permitting reform

Capitol Hill fly-in

Congress

WRDA

State Revolving Funds

WIFIA

federal investment