Davids Hosts Roundtable with Kansas Leaders to Shape Next Major Transportation Bill
MISSION, KS — Today, Representative Sharice Davids brought together local leaders and transportation organizations for a roundtable discussion on the upcoming 2026 surface transportation reauthorization bill. The event is part of Davids’ ongoing efforts to ensure that Kansans have a strong voice in shaping national infrastructure policy.
“When we invest in infrastructure, we’re investing in our communities — safer roads, better transit, and more good-paying jobs,” said Davids. “The bipartisan infrastructure law, which included the last surface transportation reauthorization, launched more than 370 projects here in Kansas. I want to make sure the next bill reflects the real needs of our region, and that starts by listening directly to the local leaders I spoke with today.”
Surface transportation reauthorizations are critical pieces of legislation that determine how federal dollars are invested in highways, transit, rail, and safety programs over multiple years. These investments affect the daily lives of Kansans — reducing congestion, improving road safety, and supporting regional economic growth. Long-term planning also gives states and cities the certainty they need to move forward with large-scale, job-creating projects.
“The Chamber applauds Representative Sharice Davids and the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee for advancing the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill,” said Libbey M. Tucker, Senior VP-Economic Development, Overland Park Chamber of Commerce. “This legislation delivers critical investments — like continuing support for improvements along U.S. 69, 167th Street reconstruction, College and Metcalf Boulevards, and other infrastructure enhancements — that directly benefit Overland Park’s residents and businesses by improving safety, reducing congestion, and spurring economic growth in our region. By ensuring stable, long term infrastructure funding, this bill helps strengthen the quality of life and competitiveness of our local community.”
“As Congress begins the process of reauthorizing our nation’s highway and surface transportation programs, Kansas Farmers Union (KFU) appreciates the opportunity to share priorities for the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization. Family farmers and ranchers depend on our nation’s highways, bridges, railways, and waterways to transport food, animals, and other agricultural products,” said Nick Levendofsky, Kansas Farmers Union Executive Director. “Throughout our history, Farmers Union members have relied on this system to move products to market and to reach export destinations that drive demand for U.S. agricultural products globally. This is why a robust transportation network is essential for rural America’s continued economic prosperity.”
“Surface transportation reauthorization is essential to sustaining infrastructure development in Kansas and nationwide,” said Aaron Frits, Incoming Director, Region 7, American Society of Civil Engineers. “As identified by ASCE, it fuels economic growth, supports businesses, and helps reduce the $3,300 annual cost per U.S. family caused by neglected investment. Reauthorizing this funding stream benefits every citizen and strengthens the economy.”
“Whether it be by road, rail or barge, safe and well-maintained transportation routes are vital for production agriculture to succeed,” said Ronald C. Seeber, President and CEO, Kansas Grain and Feed Association. “The modes enable the movement of farm inputs, grain, biofuels and livestock from the field to the consumer. In Kansas, the role county, state and interstate roads play are incredibly important to facilitate short haul truck transportation, particularly of perishable products, while short line and Class I rail service play a pivotal role in moving bulk commodities over longer distances. The 2026 reauthorization of the surface transportation act is essential for Kansas, our nation, and the world.”
“Reauthorization of the federal surface transportation program is critical for corn farmers that rely on safe, efficient highways, railways, and waterways to move their products from field to market,” said Taylor Williamson, Director of Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Kansas Corn. “Whether used domestically or destined for international markets, strong infrastructure is critical to ensure timely delivery, reduced costs, and maintain America's agricultural competitiveness. We appreciate Representative Davids’ efforts to allow agriculture to remain engaged and have a voice in this issue.”
The bipartisan infrastructure law, which included the previous surface transportation reauthorization, has created more than 370 projects statewide. Championed by Davids through her work on the U.S. House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, the law has funded major efforts like the expansion of U.S. Highway 69, lead pipe replacement in Olathe, safety improvements in KCK, and the purchase of electric buses for KCATA. It’s been recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in a decade, thanks to its blend of new revenues and cost-saving measures.