U.S. Transportation Secretary Slater Announces $10 Million for Washington in Highway Discretionary Funds

Topics:  Rodney E. Slater

Federal Highway Administration
27 October 2000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, October 27, 2000
Contact: Jim Pinkelman
Tel.: 202-366-0660
FHWA 67-00

U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney E. Slater today said that Washington will receive $10 million in Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) discretionary funds.

"President Clinton and Vice President Gore recognize the need for continued strategic investment that will improve America's transportation system," Secretary Slater said. "This funding will strengthen our transportation system, create jobs in Washington, and yield significant dividends in terms of safety, mobility, environmental protection and economic growth."

Grants were provided to Washington in five categories. The categories, grants and the totals provided, are:

• Public Lands Highways, two grants for a total of $263,700;
• The Transportation and Community and System Preservation program (TCSP), four grants for a total of $3.1 million;
• Ferry Boats and Terminals, one grant, $5 million;
• Scenic Byways, two grants for a total of $741,600;
• Innovative Bridge Research and Construction Program, two grants for a total of $925,000;
• Public Lands Highways grants provide funds for the construction of highways on public lands such as national parks.

TCSP, a key component of the Clinton-Gore administration's livability agenda, is an initiative that consists of research and grants that will assist communities as they work to solve interrelated problems involving transportation, land development, environmental protection, public safety and economic development.

Ferry Boats and Terminals grants provide funds to facilitate movement of people and goods across inland and coastal waterways.

Scenic Byways are outstanding roads through areas recognized for their special historic, cultural, natural, or other qualities. Under the National Scenic Byways Program, the states and byways use the funds to develop and implement corridor management plans, construct scenic byway facilities (such as overlooks, interpretative centers, signs and exhibits), develop interpretative brochures, maps and information, and promote Scenic Byways.

The Innovative Bridge Research and Construction Program provides funds to help states and municipalities to incorporate innovative materials and materials technologies in their bridge projects.

FHWA discretionary funds are made available upon selection by the Secretary of Transportation after requests from states for funds for projects that meet criteria established by federal law and U.S. Department of Transportation regulations and procedures. Congress also makes decisions on some grants.

Further information about the projects is on the Internet at www.fhwa.dot.gov.