DELRAY BEACH, Fla. — One of the most powerful Democrats in the country, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was in Delray Beach on Saturday to tout a bipartisan infrastructure law.
Pelosi and other lawmakers chose the broken George Bush Boulevard Bridge as a backdrop to try to illustrate how billions in infrastructure dollars could help to ease day-to-day life.
The California congresswoman arrived on the east side of the bridge — still stuck in the upright position — using an alternate route, as those living nearby have done for two weeks and counting.
"We know that the most expensive maintenance is no maintenance," Pelosi said.
The $1 trillion package includes $19 billion for Florida.
It will help a gamut of issues, from internet access to handling stronger storms.
A large chunk is for transportation investments like roads and bridges.
"We want it to build a better America," Pelosi said.
Counties like Palm Beach will have to pursue the money through federal grants while also facing massive supply chain issues.
"It's expected the time frame will be several years before we can expect the replacement of this bridge," Palm Beach County Mayor Robert Weinroth said.
With midterms looming and Democrats in a tough political climate, Florida's been re-drawing congressional district lines.
Neighborhoods work wait to see what can be done once those dollars arrive.
"What are bridges but to connect us — to connect us — and when that connection comes down, it affects so many people," Pelosi said.
