ACPA Attends the Cement and Concrete Fly-In

This past April 9th and 10th, a delegation of ACPA members traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the 2019 Cement and Concrete Fly-In sponsored by the Portland Cement Association (PCA). In all, there were over 140 attendees representing various sectors of the concrete industry who participated in the opportunity to discuss key issues that impact the concrete and cement industries with many top federal officials and congressional offices.

During simultaneous sessions, attendees heard from nine different agencies and administrations within the Federal Government that included: DOT, EPA, DOL, DOL, MSHA, FHWA, FERC, DOE, as well as the White House and Office of the Vice President. Topics were wide-ranging: transportation and infrastructure with a focus on resiliency and water; occupational health and safety; and workforce development, which included a presentation from Dr. Tonya Komas, founding director and president of the Concrete Preservation Institute.

Delegates were then divided into 14 small teams and briefed on talking points before heading out to meet with over 160 congressional offices on Capitol Hill. The collaborative team message focused primarily on the importance of Congress passing infrastructure legislation and in creating a permanent fix for the Highway Trust Fund.

Due to its strength and durability, concrete is the most widely used building material product in the world and no matter the application, is the ideal choice for a sustainable, resilient and environmentally-friendly building product that will be used to improve and expand America’s infrastructure and transportation system. Collectively, the concrete and cement industries employ approximately 600,000 people and contribute over $100 billion dollars each year to the nation’s economy.

Wrapping up each day was a cocktail reception with guest appearances from over 14 members of the House and Senate. On Tuesday, attendees were also treated to a dinner atop 101 Constitution Avenue that featured a panoramic view of the nation’s capitol all the way down to the Washington Monument.

“PCA did a fantastic job in organizing a really worthwhile and first-class event,” says Christi Collins, ACPA executive director. “Not only did we learn about matters that in one way or another will affect concrete pumpers, but we were afforded the opportunity to engage in real dialogue with members of Congress on specific issues, such as our off-road fuel tax legislation. We look forward to returning next year and hopefully, more ACPA members will join us.”