Kingston offers geosynthetic language in transportation bill

By Andrew Aho

U.S. Rep. Jack Kingston (R–Ga.) and his staff worked with GMA to craft language for the transportation appropriation bill that highlights the cost-saving and environmental benefits of geosynthetic materials as well as the upcoming Government Accountability Office (GAO) study on innovative material.

The language in the bill reads: Geosynthetics – The Committee directs the FHWA to continue assessing the use of geosynthetics in highway and civil infrastructure applications, especially potential cost savings and environmental benefits.  The Committee also encourages FHWA to review and consider the recommendations in GAO’s upcoming report on geosynthetics and the associated life-cycle costs of incorporating innovative materials in pavement.

GMA anticipates support for this language in the U.S. Senate when the transportations bill goes to conference committee.

“We greatly appreciate the close working relationship our government relations team has with Congressman Kingston. This legislative success is a direct result of GMA members’ participation in our government relations program,” said GMA executive council chair, Boyd Ramsey.

Ramsey noted that GMA member company Willacoochee Industrial Fabrics has made a special effort to be part of GMA Lobby Day and helped develop the connection with Kingston’s office. Congressman Kingston represents the 1st congressional district in southern Georgia. GMA members Willacoochee and L & M Supply are located in his district.

Andrew Aho is the managing director of the Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA).