Governor Issues Statement on Proposition 1B Funding Allocations Nearing $4 Billion in Fiscal Year 2007-08

Statement

Governor Issues Statement on Proposition 1B Funding Allocations Nearing $4 Billion in Fiscal Year 2007-08

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a statement regarding California Department of Transportation's (Caltrans) announcement that Proposition 1B funding allocations for the 2007-08 fiscal year have surged to near $4 billion today. Championed by the Governor, Proposition 1B is the 2006 voter approved bond to improve California's transportation infrastructure.

"The voters of California called for action - and we've acted by delivering nearly $4 billion in funding to improve the quality of life in our state," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "By investing in transportation projects across California we can stimulate the economy, reduce traffic congestion and protect our environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions."

The near $4 billion total includes $143 million allocated today by the California Transportation Commission for 9 Proposition 1B projects, including:

* Alameda County - $23.4 million was allocated to repair six miles of Interstate 680 in Fremont. This project will smooth out the pavement, reducing costly vehicle repairs.

* Los Angeles - $52.9 million was allocated to build two miles of new HOV lanes on Interstate 10 between Interstate 605 and Puente Avenue in Baldwin Park.

* West Sacramento - $24.6 million was allocated to widen Highway 50 to six lanes and improve the Harbor Boulevard interchange.

* Riverside - $6 million was allocated to build a four-lane bridge across railroad tracks. This will decrease greenhouse gas emissions generated by idling vehicles waiting for trains to pass.

In addition to the Proposition 1B allocations made today, the California Transportation Commission also allocated $805 million for 268 other transportation projects.

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