States ready to go forward with highway projects are seeing equally eager construction companies put in bids as low as 50% below budget, and far ahead of schedule.
"The California Department of Transportation, which is expected to get more than $2.5 billion in stimulus funds for highways, is "darn close to digging holes," said Douglas Failing, Caltrans' director for Los Angeles and Ventura counties. He said the agency plans to spend $189 million to improve the 405 Freeway, mostly by building a long-sought carpool lane on the northbound side through the Sepulveda Pass. Caltrans hopes to award a contract by the end of the month, with work beginning about mid-May."
"Los Angeles County expects to receive $450 million for highways under the stimulus for transportation projects, a chunk of which will go to the cities.
John Horsley, executive director of the American Assn. of State Highway and Transportation Officials, said state highway departments have been gearing up for federal spending ever since summer, when then-presidential candidates Obama and Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) began talking about the need for further stimulus."
FULL STORY: Highway projects 'ahead of schedule and under budget,' Obama says
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
Opinion: Federal Government Must Continue Supporting Rural Housing Program
The incoming Congress will have a say in bolstering — or harming — the only federal housing program focused on affordable housing in rural areas.
Chicago Budget Fails to Include Snow Plowing Program
Disability rights advocates say the “Plow the Sidewalks” program is a necessity for Chicagoans with limited mobility in winter months.
Indy Bike Share Sees Sharp Growth Thanks to Free Pass Program
A new fleet of e-bikes and free access for Marion County residents are getting more people on bikes.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Village of Glen Ellyn
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners