Pete Buttigieg discusses Philly Shipyard and local infrastructure improvements

On Monday, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg attended the christening of the Patriot State, a new training vessel constructed at the Philadelphia Shipyard. This ship is part of a $1.5 billion contract awarded in 2021 to build four national security multi-mission vessels (NSMVs) aimed at training future Merchant Mariners. These vessels are also equipped for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, addressing the need for modernized ships as many existing ones are outdated. The project has created approximately 1,400 jobs in Philadelphia, showcasing the shipyard's resurgence. During the interview, Buttigieg highlighted the critical state of infrastructure in Pennsylvania, particularly the high number of deficient bridges. The Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized infrastructure funding, leading to the implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law, which aims to improve 10,000 bridges nationwide. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing the safety and reliability of transportation networks across the country. Buttigieg also addressed the needs of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), emphasizing the federal government's support for transit systems. The bipartisan infrastructure law has allocated over $300 million for SEPTA to acquire new rail cars, which are essential for improving commuter services. This funding represents the largest federal investment in transit to date, underscoring the administration's focus on modernizing public transportation. Overall, Buttigieg's visit to Philadelphia highlights significant advancements in maritime training and infrastructure improvements, demonstrating a concerted effort to revitalize local economies and enhance transportation systems for the future.