February 27, 2008

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) today announced that 34 road projects across Michigan will be accelerated from the 2009 construction season to 2008, creating 2,100 new jobs in Michigan.  The announcement is one piece of the governor's economic stimulus package that she unveiled in her recent State of the State address. 

MDOT is accelerating almost $150 million in road and bridge projects, creating approximately 2,100 jobs in planning, engineering, and construction.  The projects will extend the life of bridges or roadways by at least 10 years and will bring much needed road improvements and safety projects to roadways across the state.

"By accelerating these projects into 2008, we are creating jobs today for our Michigan workers," Granholm said.  "In addition to creating new jobs, we are also improving Michigan's infrastructure and stimulating economic growth by making travel easier and more efficient for commuters and visitors who are traveling throughout our great state."

The 34 accelerated "economic stimulus" projects are located in communities throughout the state and were selected because they could be accelerated into the current year.  The projects will be presented to the state transportation commission at its meeting on February 28.  Funding for the projects will be provided by bonding, taking advantage of current low interest rates, and by refinancing some existing bonds.

"Moving these projects into 2008 will provide jobs for Michigan workers and make needed transportation improvements in our communities.  We are investing in Michigan now and for the future.  We're proud to do our part in helping Michigan's economy move forward," State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle said.

A full list of the projects is attached.

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