WASHINGTON-The American Public Works Association (APWA) applauds the Senate passage and President Obama's signing of the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act legislation, which keeps the Federal Highway Trust Fund solvent, and the nation's federal highway and public transportation programs operating through the end of the year.

"Passage of the HIRE Act ensures state and local governments can move forward with needed transportation projects that will boost local economies, create jobs, and make lasting improvements to our aging and deteriorating roads, bridges and public transportation systems," noted APWA Executive Director Peter B. King. "We look forward to continuing to work with the Congress and the Administration to complete a multi‐year authorization that significantly increases transportation investment and help ensure a swift and enduring economic recovery.

Among its provisions, the HIRE Act includes:

*Extending authorizations for the Highway and Transit Programs through December 31, 2010.

*Providing $19.5 billion to the Federal Highway Trust Fund to keep it solvent.

*Restoring $8.7 billion in highway contract authority to the states, which was rescinded at

the end of fiscal year 2009.

The House of Representatives approved the HIRE Act March. For more information on

APWA, visit www.apwa.org. For media inquiries, contact Laura Bynum, Media Relations Manager at 202.218.6736, or lbynum@apwa.net.

About APWA

The American Public Works Association (www.apwa.net) is a not‐for‐profit, international organization of more than 29,500 members involved in the field of public works. APWA serves its members by promoting professional excellence and public awareness through education, advocacy and the exchange of knowledge. APWA is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, has an office in Washington, D.C. and 64 chapters in North America.