DOT Awards $417 Million for State Highway Projects
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood Wednesday announced $417 million in grants to fund highway infrastructure projects, ranging from interstate maintenance to research into innovative bridge materials and construction methods.
“Transportation investments like these will create jobs, increase mobility, improve quality of life for all Americans and strengthen our national economy,” LaHood said in a statement. “The demand from the states for these funds shows just how critical the need is for infrastructure investment.”
The Federal Highway Administration, which is part of DOT, invited states to apply in June for federal funding from 14 grant programs.
DOT received more than 1,800 applications — totaling nearly $13 billion, which is more than 30 times the funds available — that included proposals from every state, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C.
“At a time when states are facing serious budgetary constraints, these grants will help fill a critical need,” said FHWA Victor Mendez. “Investments like these are immediate and long-lasting and will help create jobs.”
“The list of state highway projects in need of financial help grows almost daily,” Mendez said. “We are glad to see these funds put to use but recognize there is still much to do to meet America’s transportation needs.”
Because the FY11 budget passed by Congress last April directed that all such funds be discretionary, FHWA awarded these funds through a competitive process.
Among the recipients, North Carolina received $3.75 million to improve the Interstate 40/I-77 interchange near Statesville, the state transportation department’s top priority.
Colorado received $3.76 million to help with accelerated bridge construction techniques that will speed completion of its replacement of the Pecos Street Bridge over I-70, DOT said.
