Congresswoman Norma Torres Reintroduces Thriving Communities Act
Washington D.C. –Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35), a senior member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Subcommittee on Appropriations, reintroduced the Thriving Communities Act. This legislation would create a grant program designed to provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to help fast-growing communities implement transformative infrastructure projects. These projects aim to improve mobility, reduce pollution, and expand affordable transportation options that connect residents to essential services. The bill would allow the Secretary of the Department of Transportation to collaborate with the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development to ensure that more affordable housing is developed near accessible public transit.
“As communities across the Inland Empire and the nation continue to grow, it is vital that the federal government prioritizes investments in reliable transportation and affordable housing,” said Congresswoman Torres. “The Trump Administration’s failure to recognize the importance of a coordinated approach to transportation and housing has left many fast-growing areas behind. This bill represents an opportunity to correct course and ensure that these communities are not left out of critical investments. By supporting municipalities of all sizes in developing safe and efficient transportation infrastructure, we can create affordable housing along existing and future transit corridors, promote job creation, and reduce harmful pollution. It’s time to prioritize the future of our communities, and this legislation will help them thrive.”
Background: The Thriving Communities Act would:
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Allocate $100 million for technical assistance and capacity building to support infrastructure projects in growing communities.
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Require collaboration between the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Transportation to improve affordable housing and transportation access in these areas.
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Direct the Department of Transportation to provide updates to the House Appropriations Committees on strategies for promoting transit-oriented development.
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Mandate the Department of Transportation to report on the metrics used to distribute funding for these projects.
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Provide an additional $5.5 million to the Department of Housing and Urban Development to facilitate coordination with the Department of Transportation.
This legislation aims to create lasting positive change by ensuring that fast-growing communities, like the Inland Empire, have access to the resources and infrastructure they need to thrive.
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