For Immediate Release:
Thursday, March 10, 2005

WASHINGTON D.C - U.S. Representative Dan Boren announced today that he has secured $16 million in preliminary funding for transportation projects in Eastern Oklahoma.  The Transportation Equity Act (TEA), which passed the House today, authorizes funding for highway programs, highway safety, and transit.

“I am extremely pleased that we were able to secure this crucial funding for Eastern Oklahoma.  These projects will improve safety and the flow of traffic in and around many communities in my district,” Boren said. 

 

Following projects were included into the TEA bill:

• $2 million in funding for construction of a rail crossing in Claremore at Blue Star Drive and SH-66
• $4.5 million in funding for improvements to SH-412P at the I-44 Interchange
• $1 million in funding for Texanna Road improvements around Lake Eufaula
• $6.25 million in funding for improvements to SH-3 from Antlers to Broken Bow
• $1 million in funding for improvements to Hereford Lane and US69 Interchange near  McAlester
• $250K in funding to construct an interchange south of I-40 along Indian Nation Turnpike near Henryetta
• $1 million in funding for reconstruction of SH-66 from Craig and Rogers Counties to SH-66 and US-60

Commenting on the bill’s overall impact, Boren said, “Updating and enhancing our infrastructure will improve access to Eastern Oklahoman, expanding business growth - a key component of the economic life of rural communities in my district.”

 

“Essential to Oklahoma’s future, this crucial bill will help to build, maintain, and repair infrastructure that Oklahomans depend upon every day.  Better roads means more jobs, economic development, and a higher quality of life for Eastern Oklahomans,” Boren said.    

 

Economists estimate that for every $1 billion spent on highway and transit programs, 47,500 American jobs will be created.  “The long term reauthorization of highway programs means good jobs for Oklahomans and Americans.  This could be the best jobs bill of this Congress,” Boren added.  

 

Director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) Gary Ridley stated, “With the House passage of the TEA, Congressman Boren was able to secure funding for some very important highway improvement projects benefiting not only his district, but assisting with the overall highway infrastructure of the state.  The Congressman has worked closely with ODOT to address needed projects, and has shown leadership and commitment to improving roads and infrastructure in Eastern Oklahoma.”

 

The Transportation Equity Act awaits action in the Senate. A final version must be passed by both the House and the Senate and be signed by the President before funding levels are final.

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