Wednesday, 03 February 2010 00:54

Supervisors Approve Major Federal Appropriations Requests

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slide2.pngAmador County- The Amador County Board of Supervisors discussed and approved this year’s federal appropriations requests during their meeting on Tuesday. County Lobbyist David French, speaking via conference call from Washington D.C., emphasized the difficulty in securing funding because the “difficult economic times faced by the state and the county are also evident on a federal level.” County Administrative Officer Terri Daly said French recently identified an underutilized grant source which awarded the county approximately $465,000 for emitters in emergency vehicles “so they can change traffic signals.” Amador County Transportation Director Charles Field outlined the current projects under consideration, which are intersection improvements at Prospect Drive and Highway 88, a solar project for the new Amador County Transit Center and general improvements for American’s with Disability Act (ADA) access. Field recommended intersection relocation at Prospect Drive and Ridge Road and the transit center project to be nominated for funding because both are near completion of design, right of way acquisition, permits and federal environmental clearance. The Supervisors previously authorized submittal of these projects last year. Field said this year’s request would be similar, except some component costs have changed. He said the solar shade project is estimated to cost $825,000. He said $125,000 of that will need to be provided by ACTC or cost savings. French said the county’s willingness to provide a portion of the funding “shows a local commitment that you’re not just depending on the federal government.” Field recommended a request of $700,000 for the intersection relocation, but warned that the project may need to be phased if all funding sources do not become available. The total estimated cost of that project is $3,567,793. As for ADA funding, French said it was likely that some money could be obtained for improvements throughout the county. He said the county’s pursuit of this funding reflects positively because it “shows that the county is proactive, rather than reactive and forced into requirements.” When asked about the feasibility of obtaining money for all three requests, French said he is optimistic but “hesitant to make any crystal ball forecasts.” The Supervisors approved all three appropriations requests. Story by Alex Lane This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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