Latest data show Wyoming still tops state rankings; Hawaii is last

September 2, 2009 By Jim Berard 202-226-5064

The latest report from the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure shows that states and other recipients are stepping up their investments in projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The report issued today is based on data from states, territories, transit agencies, and metropolitan planning organizations as of July 31, and from federal agencies as of August 14 regarding programs within the Committee’s jurisdiction.

The Committee found that 10,542 transportation and other infrastructure projects totaling $35.5 billion have been announced and more than 9,600 projects have been specifically approved by the relevant agency.

According to the report, 6,831 highway and transit projects in all 50 states, four territories, and the District of Columbia have been put out to bid, totaling $20.1 billion, 59 percent of the $34.3 billion provided for highway and transit projects. Of that total, 5,173 projects totaling $13.5 billion are under contract and 4,087 projects totaling $10.8 billion are under construction.

These projects have created or sustained more than 76,000 direct, on-project jobs, the Committee reports. These projects have further resulted in tens of thousands of indirect and induced jobs, including those at companies that produce construction materials and equipment.

The Committee also released a complete ranking of states’ progress at investing Recovery Act highway formula funds. Wyoming leads the way with 95.0 percent of its funds under contract and 94.9 percent in projects underway. Hawaii is 51st among the 50 states and the District of Columbia with only 36.3 percent of its funds out to bid, and only 3.4 percent in projects underway.

Click here to see the complete report and state-by-state rankings