Recovery Act dollars are helping build a new roadway and bridge over I-95, and the project will strengthen the local economy by increasing accessibility to commercial and residential developments in the area, Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez announced on Feb. 8 as he toured work on the Dunn Avenue project in Daytona, Fla.
Mendez’ visit follows President Obama’s State of the Union address, in which he stressed the importance of building the transportation infrastructure that will make our nation more competitive globally and strengthen our economy here at home.
Mendez was joined by Daytona Mayor Glenn Ritchey, Volusia County Chair Frank Bruno and other local transportation representatives to review progress on-site. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) paid for $5.5 million of the total $6.6 million project.
“This is just one example of what President Obama was talking about when he said we needed to out-build the rest of the world,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “This new project will improve access to homes and businesses and eventually encourage new development along the I-95 corridor.”
This new construction will improve mobility and alleviate traffic congestion in a busy area that includes the airport and the Daytona International Speedway. It will also provide another route between the east and west sides of the city. When completed this summer, the new bridge and adjacent new road will allow for the more efficient movement of people and goods along I-95.
"People are excited and proud of what is being built here, and they should be,” Mendez said. “It’s putting people to work and creating economic opportunities along with building a new road.”
Of the $26.6 billion in ARRA highway funds available for road and bridge projects nationwide, Florida's share is $1.35 billion. As of Jan. 28, the state had 391 projects under way and 213 completed.
