The current bill calls for $30 billion in funds to
transportation-related projects throughout the nation, and the COG
director said that as of now, $2.8 billion would go to California
for divvying among state and regional agencies. The purpose of the
funding is to create jobs during this troubling economic time.
HOLLISTER
Federal officials’ attempt at revitalizing the economy through public-works job creation might result in fewer potholes and overall better street conditions in Hollister neighborhoods.
As the federal government weighs the bailout plan passing through the House Appropriations Committee, a local transportation leader said that ready-to-go, “shovel-ready” projects such as street repairs – she pointed to potholes as a prime example – would be likely candidates for nearly $3 billion in transportation improvement funds slated for California.
Lisa Rheinheimer, executive director of the San Benito County Council of Governments, said local officials are awaiting word on potential bailout funds while pinpointing projects that might be eligible.
The current bill calls for $30 billion in funds to transportation-related projects throughout the nation, and the COG director said that as of now, $2.8 billion would go to California for divvying among state and regional agencies.
It also is not clear when the money would be allocated – within 90, 120 and 150 days are all figures she has heard – but it likely would occur in the spring, Rheinheimer said.
The purpose of the $30 billion to transportation projects is to create jobs during this troubling economic time, she pointed out.
“I know what they want to do is create jobs, and they want to do it quick,” she said.
Although specifics are unclear, she said there would be a short turnaround period to award contracts for the work.
“Projects have to be very shovel ready,” she said.
She noted how COG itself has many projects under way, but that a lot of those will not be ready to go in time. The most likely candidates would be what she called a backlog of rehabilitation and street overlay jobs such as fixing potholes.
The basic eligibility requirements so far, she pointed out, are as follows: They must be included on a statewide list of projects and they need to have cleared requirements under the federal environmental review process.
While cities and counties also would be eligible for the funds, Rheinheimer said it is not yet clear whether the federal government would distribute any dollars directly to those municipalities or if agencies such as COG would be responsible for doing so.
Hollister City Manager Clint Quilter informed council members of the potential dollars Monday. He said local officials are staying in touch with legislators and that he also understands projects must be “ready to go immediately.”
“We certainly have the projects to be able to utilize any money that would come our way,” he said.
