More stimulus projects funded
Courtesy Raul Leal,
AUSTIN – State transportation officials today approved funding for additional mobility and transportation enhancement projects through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), commonly referred to as the federal economic stimulus bill.
The action approved by the Texas Transportation Commission, at its monthly meeting, provides ARRA funding for two additional mobility projects estimated at $165 million and eight additional transportation enhancement projects funded at $12.7 million.
The nation’s economic condition and its accompanying effect on construction contracting continue to result in project cost underruns, allowing additional projects to be funded.
Expansions to Interstate 10 in Houston and Interstate 45 in Conroe make up the two additional mobility projects approved for funding.
Earlier this year, the ARRA provided for an infusion of more than $2.2 billion to Texas for transportation-related infrastructure improvements. The stimulus bill requires states to set aside a portion of those funds for transportation enhancements. For Texas, that amount is $67 million in projects, approved earlier this year.
The Transportation Enhancement program supports transportation-related activities that promote the quality of the environment through aesthetic enhancements associated with transportation.
“Today’s action allows us to move forward with funding for transportation-related projects that will enhance the livelihood of communities and the environment and the look of our roadways,” said Amadeo Saenz, TxDOT executive director.
“These projects will improve the transportation experience in local communities all over the state,” he added.
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