The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) has launched a nationwide campaign called America’s Moving Forward to encourage Congress to pass new federal highway and transit funding. The campaign comes as an AGC analysis of federal employment data shows that most major metropolitan areas in the United States have added construction jobs since 2020.
Ken Simonson, chief economist for the association, said, “Improving highways and transportation systems makes it easier for companies to thrive and expand by lowering shipping costs, accelerating deliveries and connecting firms to clients and investors.” He also warned that without a long-term transportation bill in place, continued job growth may be at risk: “But without a long-term transportation bill in place, it is hard to see how most areas will be able to sustain the kind of job growth they have experienced since 2020.”
According to Simonson, ten out of the fifteen largest metro areas added construction jobs between December 2020 and December 2025. The Dallas/Fort Worth area saw the largest increase with 47,100 new construction jobs—a rise of 22 percent. Other cities with significant gains included Houston, Miami, Atlanta, and Washington D.C.
Simonson attributed much of this growth to investments by federal and state officials in improving transportation networks. He explained that good transportation connections are key factors for developers choosing project sites, manufacturers seeking efficient shipping routes, and businesses wanting to avoid traffic congestion.
However, he expressed concern that Congress might not pass the next Surface Transportation Bill before the current law expires at the end of September. If delayed, states could struggle to advance large-scale transportation projects needed for economic development.
To address these concerns, AGC’s America’s Moving Forward campaign aims to educate both the public and lawmakers about the benefits of timely highway and transit legislation. The initiative will use digital and social media advertising targeting key Congressional districts across several states. A dedicated campaign website will provide information on federal transportation funding benefits and help constituents contact their representatives.
Advertising has already begun in Texas and Missouri with plans for expansion into other states later this spring. The association expects to invest up to $2 million in this effort. Simonson commented on this investment: “While this is a big investment for an association like ours, it is a small price to pay to ensure continued economic growth in America’s communities.”
He concluded: “If we do our job right, it will be very hard for Congress to kick the can on passing a new highway, bridge and transit bill before the current one expires.”
In Nevada specifically, the Nevada Chapter of AGC supports local construction professionals by providing resources aimed at industry involvement as well as advocating through member participation in civic affairs and legislative processes. The chapter represents general contractors along with specialty contractors throughout Nevada’s construction sector while operating from its base in Reno through eight specialized committees (source).
