FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, November 3, 2000
Contact: Jim Pinkelman
Tel.: 202-366-0660
FHWA 119-00

U.S. Transportation Secretary Slater Announces $7.4 Million for Wyoming in Highway Discretionary Funds

U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney E. Slater today said that Wyoming will receive $7.4 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 Wyoming, and yield significant dividends in terms of safety, mobility and economic growth."

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

• Public Lands Highways, two grants for a total of $4.7 million;

• Scenic Byways, two grants for a total of $2.7 million.

Public Lands Highways grants provide funds for the construction of highways on public lands such as national parks.

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.

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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