Washington, Dec 19, 2007 - As Congress completes its 2007 session, U.S. Congressman John L. Mica (R-7th District) announced today that in the Omnibus Appropriations measure, $500,000 in federal funds was approved to support the expansion of SR 9B in St. Johns County.
“This half a million dollars will keep the critical 9B bypass project moving forward”, noted Rep. Mica
Mica previously secured $3.52 million in federal funds toward the estimated $35 million dollar project costs.
“These funds will expedite final design and right of way acquisition to help cover this phase of the project,” said Rep. Mica. “Unfortunately, higher construction costs and higher costs to maintain our existing highways is straining budget at the local, State, and national levels.”
The extension project begins on the south end at an intersection with CR 2209 and connects with the proposed interchange of SR 9B and Interstate 95. In addition to the $500,000 authorized for the design phase of the SR 9B extension in St. Johns County, this project was previously authorized by Congress in the major National Highway bill as some of the first federal transportation earmarks that St. Johns County has received.
“With the growth in St. Johns County, it is vital that this important infrastructure project receives not only county and State support, but also financial assistance from the federal level,” stated Rep. Mica.
Congress’s action is part of their work to complete the appropriations bills that provide the operating budgets for the agencies and departments of the Federal Government. The measure must also be approved by the Senate and signed into law by the President.