Transportation Stimulus Dollars Put to Work

Press Release

Transportation Stimulus Dollars Put to Work

Gov. Mike Rounds says the South Dakota Department of Transportation has used American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds this spring to contract for 11 highway projects worth nearly $77 million.

Contracts for the rest of this construction season include three projects worth an additional $7 million.

South Dakota received $183 million of economic stimulus funds for transportation projects. Remaining stimulus funds will be contracted beginning this fall.

The Governor says contracting and construction with stimulus funds have proceeded according to plans. Road maintenance and resurfacing needs across the state have been primary focuses of the funding, he says.

"Construction work and employment are occurring statewide because of this funding from Congress," Gov. Rounds says.

Some of the projects have already started, while the rest will start shortly.

Because of careful planning by the Department of Transportation, inflation has been controlled in the construction projects.

With the increased construction activity this summer, the Governor says motorists should pay particular attention to safety in road construction zones.

"Please slow down in those areas and always be aware of your surroundings while traveling," Gov. Rounds says.

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