WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Benjamin L. Cardin today praised the House-passed transportation bill for including funding for an important project in Howard County that will "continue the revitalization efforts along the U.S. 1 Corridor."

Rep. Cardin whose congressional district includes the Howard County portion of the U.S. 1 Corridor, has been a strong supporter of the revitalization project. In last year’s Omnibus Budget Bill, the Congressman requested more than $750,000 to revitalize the U.S. 1 Corridor. In the FY 2005 transportation bill, the Congressman requested another $1 million for comprehensive improvements to this major corridor that runs from Elkridge to Laurel.

"U.S. 1 is an older road with growing transportation problems. This is a relatively low-cost project that can make this corridor significantly safer, more attractive and enhance the long-term economic viability of the entire area," he said.

In 2002, Howard County released a U.S. 1 Corridor Revitalization Study recommending a number of low-cost improvements. Federal funding will be used with state funds to complete the project.

Earlier this year, the Senate passed a transportation bill. Both versions of the bill will now go to conference committee in which differences will be worked out.

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