The top authorizer of policy related to highways and transit systems in the U.S. House of Representatives was tapped to serve as the leading Republican on the chamber’s transportation panel when a new Congress convenes in January.

The top Republican authorizer on highways and transit policy in the U.S. House pledged to work alongside Democrats in crafting a long-term measure that would be designed to maintain and modernize the country’s infrastructure system.

WASHINGTON — Missouri Republican Rep. Sam Graves, among the leading candidates to succeed outgoing Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Bill Shuster next year, said he is optimistic about the chances of advancing a massive infrastructure plan this year.

The chairman of the subcommittee on highways in the House said he is optimistic Congress will agree on a long-term funding fix for infrastructure projects before a highway law expires in 2020.