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Atlanta, Jan 12 -

U.S. Congressman Phil Gingrey, MD (R-GA) today called a meeting today with members of the Floyd and Bartow County Delegations at Georgia's Capitol in Atlanta to form an action plan to keep the 411 Connector a priority for the State of Georgia. Congressman Gingrey called for the meeting on the first day of Georgia's legislative session so that the entire delegation could begin developing this plan immediately as they explore funding opportunities in the upcoming session.

“Since my election in 2003, I have worked to coordinate the efforts of local, state and federal leaders to make sure this road becomes a reality for Northwest Georgia.  I will continue to do so until the first car drives on the new highway. I called a meeting today at the State Capitol with the Bartow and Floyd State Delegation to hit the ground running on 411 in this new year. The signing of the Record of Decision in October was a milestone accomplishment, and now we must ensure that the local delegation and GDOT continue working to commit the resources necessary to complete this project.”

This meeting comes on the heels of the inclusion of the 411 Connector on Georgia's project list for the proposed stimulus package -- an effort Congressman Gingrey has coordinated with Federal Highway, GDOT, Senators Isakson and Chambliss, members of the Bartow and Floyd Delegation, the Governor’s office and local officials from Northwest Georgia over the last two weeks.

“Now is the ideal time to use the $25 million dollars that Senators Chambliss and Isakson and I were able to get appropriated for this project. It can to be a powerful economic stimulus for all of northwest Georgia.”

Congressman Gingrey concluded, “The meeting today was very beneficial.  Everyone came to the table ready to discuss ideas as to how to finally find a way to complete this project for our constituents.  Bartow and Floyd Counties are fortunate to have leaders at the state level who have the abilities and resources to make things happen.  It is my pleasure to work hand in hand with these outstanding men and women as we apply common sense government to a much needed project.”

Today’s meeting was held at the office of State Senator Preston Smith and attending were  Senator Smith, Senator Bill Heath and Senator Jeff Mullis and State Reps Barry Loudermilk, Katie Dempsey, Tom Graves, Barbara Massey Reese and the newest member of the Bartow delegation, Paul Battles.