LITTLE ROCK (3-4) 

     The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) has provided written certification to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) that it is ready to begin spending federal stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for roadway improvements in the state, according to AHTD Director Dan Flowers. 

     “Two things must occur before a state can begin spending the stimulus funds,” Flowers said. “First, written certification must be provided to the FHWA stating that projects to be funded from the ARRA have been reviewed and vetted, and that they are an appropriate use of taxpayer dollars.  I’m pleased that Arkansas was one of the first 17 states to provide that certification on Monday, March 2.

     “Second, the FHWA must apportion the money to the states,” Flowers continued. “We received notice on Tuesday, March 3, that Arkansas has been apportioned its $351 million in stimulus funding for highways, and we have obligated about $24 million that will allow us to advertise and take bids on 27 stimulus-funded highway rehabilitation projects at the Highway Commission’s April 8^th bid letting.” The 27 stimulus projects will be in addition to 21 other roadway and bridge projects being prepared for the April letting, Flowers noted.

     “We’ve said all along that once we received specific instructions from the FHWA, we would be ready to go,” Flowers added. “The Highway Commission and the AHTD staff have worked closely with Governor Beebe, his staff, and the FHWA to make sure that all the proper steps have been taken, that all the appropriate blanks have been filled in, and that all deadlines are met. It has been, and will continue to be, a cooperative effort.”

     Approximately $123 million of Arkansas ’ $351 million in ARRA funds for roads and bridges must be obligated by July 1, 2009. The remainder of the funds must be obligated by March 3, 2010.

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