Edwards Advances Final FY2026 Appropriations Package, Securing Critical Investments in Public Safety, Infrastructure, and Economic Growth

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) voted to advance the final funding package of the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations cycle, including the Defense; Homeland Security; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development bills, delivering essential resources that will strengthen public safety, boost economic development, and support long-term resilience for communities across Western North Carolina. Thanks to Republican leadership, Congress avoided the long-standing, irresponsible practice of rushing a must-pass end-of-year omnibus and instead put the appropriations process back on track to proceed through regular order.

“This bipartisan funding package ensures we deliver real results for our communities, from safer streets and emergency services to reliable infrastructure and workforce development,”said Congressman Edwards. “By completing all 12 appropriations bills, we are providing the stable, full-year funding families and local leaders asked for while continuing recovery from Hurricane Helene and setting Western North Carolina up for a prosperous future.”

The FY2026 appropriations package marks a key milestone in completing Congress’s annual budget work and reflects targeted investments in national defense, homeland security, public health, transportation, education, and community infrastructure that maintain America’s leadership at home and abroad while meeting local needs. 

Through Member-directed Community Project Funding secured by Congressman Edwards, this legislation includes critical resources for NC-11 priorities:
 

• $1.5 million for the Town of Robbinsville to upgrade water distribution lines on Black Knight Way and Dillard Orr Road will ensure reliable service to a new Graham County elementary school, serving about 500 students and existing residents and businesses.
• $3 million for Madison County to support the construction of a new Emergency Services hub, improving coordination and response for routine needs and major incidents.
• $3 million for Swain County to upgrade their water system to serve a new middle school in Bryson City, benefiting students, staff, and the surrounding community.
• $3 million for Buncombe County to build a 10,000-square-foot EMS base at the Owen Pool site, enhancing emergency medical capacity for eastern Buncombe County.
• $2.5 million for the Asheville Regional Airport to construct a new west-side taxiway, supporting current operations and future economic growth tied to transportation infrastructure.

This package delivers necessary resources for the region, especially for communities still rebuilding after Hurricane Helene’s devastation. Federal support through full-year appropriations eliminates the uncertainty of short-term extensions and empowers local leaders to plan with confidence. 

“These investments go beyond individual projects — they strengthen our mountain towns, support local first responders, and expand opportunities for families and businesses,”Edwards added. “I will continue working to ensure Western North Carolina’s needs are met.”
 

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