"While I would have liked the total appropriations for infrastructure to be higher, I think the position of Utah and my district in this bill has improved," Bishop said. "I'm glad that we could forward a bill that at least starts the planning process for future construction and improvements."

In the 2nd District, Rep. Jim Matheson secured funding for $57 million in local highway projects.

"I've worked closely with local and state officials over the past three years to ensure that Utah transportation needs would receive the support they deserve in this comprehensive federal legislation," Matheson said.

Also included in the bill are ongoing projects to expand Utah's light rail and commuter rail systems, including the Airport TRAX Line, the Delta Center-Gateway TRAX extension, the Draper to Sandy TRAX line, the West Valley City TRAX extension, the West Jordan TRAX extension, TRAX capacity improvements and commuter rail from Provo to Ogden. He also succeeded in gaining eligibility for Highway 6 in the High Priority Corridor Funding designation.

"This transportation funding is very timely because of the tremendous growth in our area," said St. George Mayor Dan McArthur. "Taking care of our transportation needs is a top priority."

The Santa Clara project is designed "to help us create a commercial market in the historic downtown," said Mayor Dennis Drake. "It will create an atmosphere for cottage industries, restored historic homes and a walkable community."

Local mayors praised the legislation. "After years of working with the Environmental Protection Agency, two previously contaminated properties are now ready for development into housing, offices and stores," said Midvale Mayor JoAnn Seghini, adding that funding will build a critical road to reclaim more than 700 acres in the middle of the Salt Lake Valley.

Sandy mayor Tom Dolan said improvements to 1300 East will "address the issue of widening the traffic lanes to improve traffic flows and add street lighting and beautification."

Cannon secured authorization for a bus rapid transit system between Provo and Orem, as well as Salt Lake City to West Valley City light rail transit extension.

"One of the most pressing needs facing Utah County was its transportation infrastructure, and this bill moves us in the right direction to address some of those needs," Cannon said.

The bill now goes to the Senate.

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Federal highway funding bill

Projects around Utah include:

• $5.5 million for U-92 in Utah County, between I-15 and Canyon Road

• Kaysville will get $4 million for construction of a graded crossing at 200 North, which currently is is unsafe and does not allow for the efficient flow of traffic between East and West Kaysville.

• $7 million for 13th East to address congestion and safety in Sandy