FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, November 3, 2000
Contact: Jim Pinkelman
Tel.: 202-366-0660
FHWA 109-00

U.S. Transportation Secretary Slater Announces $6.4 Million for Kentucky in Highway Discretionary Funds

U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney E. Slater today said that Kentucky will receive $6.4 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 Kentucky, and yield significant dividends in terms of safety, mobility, environmental protection and economic growth."

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

• Public Lands Highways, three grants for a total of $2.3 million;

• The Transportation and Community and System Preservation Pilot Program (TCSP), four grants for a total of $3.2 million;

• Ferry Boats and Terminals, one grant for $144,000;

• Innovative Bridge Research and Construction Program, two grants for a total of $175,000; and

• Historic Covered Bridge Preservation Program, one grant for $600,000.

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 assists communities as they work to solve interrelated problems involving transportation, land development, environmental protection, public safety and economic development.

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

The Innovative Bridge Research and Construction Program provides funds to help states and municipalities incorporate innovative materials and materials technologies in their bridge projects. The new Historic Covered Bridge Preservation Program provides funds to states to preserve, rehabilitate or restore historic covered bridges.

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.

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