Governor & Municipalities Announce Local Roads Stimulus Projects
Press Release
Governor & Municipalities Announce Local Roads Stimulus Projects
(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman and the League of Nebraska Municipalities today announced the local roads projects expected to receive funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Approved yesterday by the League Executive Board, the 23 projects are in 16 cities across the state.
"By using these funds for ready-to-go projects, the positive economic effects should begin soon," Gov. Heineman said. "This is a good example of local control. I appreciate the League's willingness and efforts to prioritize important projects throughout our state."
League Executive Director L. Lynn Rex said, "The League sincerely thanks Governor Heineman for giving us the opportunity to play a meaningful role in distributing these funds to first class cities for important transportation infrastructure projects which will be a direct benefit to all Nebraskans, especially in economically distressed areas."
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The ARRA stipulates that recovery funding for first-class cities must be designated to cities with populations between 5,000 and 199,999. Projects will be listed for bid in the near future. Nebraska received $28.1 million for roads projects in first-class cities.
ARRA funding criteria requires projects selection be based on economic need and ready-to-commence status. Per ARRA requirements, priority was given to projects that could be completed within three years and to activities that can be started and completed expeditiously.
Nebraska is expected to receive a total of $235.6 million for road improvements, with$157.8 million designated for state highway system projects. The Nebraska Department of Roads (NDOR) is releasing projects for bid every 30 days until all state roads funds are obligated.
In addition to funding for state roads and first-class cities, Omaha will receive $23.2 million for road improvements, Lincoln $9.4 million, counties will receive $10 million, and trails and historical preservation projects will receive $7.1 million.
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