In his recent address to Congress, President Joe Biden highlighted the impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the CHIPS Act on the construction and infrastructure and construction industries.
Domestic Focus and International Initiatives
Most of Biden’s speech, delivered on March 7 to a joint session of Congress, concentrated on domestic issues. However, he also unveiled a construction-related project overseas.
Biden disclosed that he had directed the U.S. military to lead an “emergency mission” to build a temporary pier on the Gaza coast. This initiative is designed to expedite the delivery of essential humanitarian aid and supplies to Palestinians in the conflict-stricken region.
Review of Accomplishments
The main focus of Biden’s address was a recap of what he and his Democratic colleagues view as their achievements.
He cited his support for Buy America, telling the gathered lawmakers, “Under my administration, federal projects that you finance—like the construction of American roads, bridges, and highways—will use American products and employ American workers.”
Biden also mentioned the CHIPS and Science Act, which he said has resulted in private companies “investing billions of dollars” in the U.S. for semiconductor factories.
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
As anticipated, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act—also referred to as the Bipartisan Infrastructure bill by administration officials—was also spotlighted. Biden noted that the bill, which is about halfway through its five-year term, has supported 46,000 new projects so far.
He criticized Republican lawmakers who opposed the IIJA, pointing out that despite their votes, they have been “applauding the funds” allocated to projects in their states or districts. Biden added, “If any of you do not want these funds in your district, please let me know.”
Construction of the Gaza Pier
Biden provided limited details about his announcement regarding the construction of the Gaza pier. However, earlier in the day, administration officials gave a background briefing on the plan.
A high-ranking official told reporters that the pier, identified as the port’s main feature, would be situated on the Mediterranean on the Gaza coast and would be able to accommodate large ships carrying food, water, medicine, and temporary shelters.
The official said that the establishment of the port “will take several weeks to plan and implement.” The source added, “The forces necessary to carry out this mission are already in the region or will be moving there shortly.”
In his address, Biden said that the temporary pier “will significantly increase the amount of humanitarian assistance reaching Gaza.”
Regarding the expected U.S. military presence, he stated, “No U.S. boots will be on the ground.”
