NUCA NJ WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | May 1, 2026

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

NUCA Ensures Utility Contractors Have a Seat at the Table in Surface Transportation Talks

NUCA, as part of the Transportation Construction Coalition (TCC), released updated policy principles this week to help guide Congress in developing the next long-term surface transportation funding bill, which expires on September 30, 2026.

The coalition – representing NUCA and 33 other industry groups – is urging Congress to act quickly to avoid funding gaps that could delay infrastructure projects. NUCA especially wanted to emphasize that utility contractors play a key supporting role in highway and bridge construction by installing essential underground infrastructure like water, sewer, gas, electric, and telecom lines.

The updated principles call on Congress to:

Maintain and adjust current funding levels for inflation while improving project efficiency
Increase protections and resources for construction zone safety
Establish more stable, long-term funding sources, such as modernized user fees

Overall, NUCA continues to position itself as an active partner in the legislative process for the highway bill, offering expertise to help ensure a stable, well-funded transportation program that also supports utility infrastructure development. NUCA NJ continues to have a leading voice in these federal advocacy efforts.

UPCOMING EVENTS

2026 Washington Summit:

Bring Your Voice to Congress

Make this the year you head to Washington, D.C. to connect your business and chapter directly with lawmakers. NUCA anticipates the introduction of State Revolving Fund reauthorization legislation this spring, alongside broader surface transportation bill activity – making this a critical time to engage.

Join the New Jersey contingent traveling to D.C. to meet with legislators and advocate for our industry. This is your opportunity to speak on the issues that matter most to your business, share real-world insights, and help shape policies impacting the utility construction sector.

By participating, you’ll stay informed on key legislative developments while ensuring New Jersey’s priorities are clearly heard on Capitol Hill.

SUMMIT REGISTRATION

NUCA has reserved a special room rate at the Holiday Inn Washington Capitol – National Mall.

HOTEL REGISTRATION

Please contact [email protected] with questions.

Safety & Damage Prevention Conference:

Registration Now Open

Join the industry’s leading safety professionals at the NUCA Safety & Damage Prevention Conference, September 15–18, 2026, at the historic Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky.

This three-day event delivers timely, practical sessions addressing today’s biggest challenges in utility construction. Topics include transportation accidents, risk management, mental health in the workplace, OSHA updates, emergency preparedness, trench safety (with NUCA National Partner United Rentals), a panel on drugs in the industry, and the latest 811 developments.

Walk away with actionable strategies to strengthen safety practices, reduce incidents, and stay ahead of evolving regulations. Plus, connect with peers during two networking events, including the STAR Award presentation.

Don’t miss this essential industry event!

HELP NUCA NEW JERSEY GROW

NUCA NJ MEET & GREET!
Wednesday, May 6th, 2026

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

ANGELINA'S KITCHEN
415 Main St.
Woodbridge, NJ

If you're a new member or considering joining, please come to a casual Meet & Greet at this new favorite spot in Woodbridge, NJ. Come meet some of our Board Members, ask questions, and get to know what we're all about.