The Tom Warne Report, 8 September 2011
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The California Department of Transportation is giving drivers in the state a smoother ride by awarding 276 paving projects this fiscal year. Low bids have allowed the state to save $163 million, which is being spread among many smaller projects.
Nearly $11 billion in federal stimulus bonds, state bonds and the millions saved by low bids has allowed the state to work on boosting the percentage of state highways rated in good condition. Right now only 28 percent have that rating.
Caltrans began paving 28 miles of I-5 (14 miles in each direction) on August 26 in north Los Angeles County. The $26 million project is partially financed by $14 million from the economic stimulus package from 2009. The work, which includes curb ramps and replacement of traffic data sensors, is expected to be completed by the summer of 2012.