Shovel-Ready

In an interview with the New York Times, President Obama admits that, quote, "there’s no such thing as shovel-ready projects."

Since the stimulus package was announced, the emphasis on 'shovel-ready' projects elicited criticism from urbanists. At yesterday's White House jobs summit, Pres. Obama acknowledged the tension it has caused.

A 14-mile road segment that would connect two highways in Texas is a contender for stimulus funding in the state. But it would also cause the removal of at least 23 acres of wetlands. Environmentalists are upset the proposal is being considered.

In this NPR interview, Michael Replogle, Environmental Defense Fund's transportation director, points to a 12-lane highway that will be built with stimulus funds that he says exacerbates our dependence on foreign oil and global warming.