FUNDING: Fla. fully funds DOT for FY 2014

Florida Gov. Richard Scott’s Florida Families First Budget for FY 2014 fully funds the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Work Program investments in port, highway, bridge and other transportation infrastructure improvements. The FDOT budget is built upon the governor’s vision to invest in job creation and to lower the cost of living for Florida’s families by prioritizing vital transportation projects to facilitate economic development opportunities.

“All the signs are positive - the unemployment rate is declining, the housing market is improving, consumer confidence is rising and economic growth in our communities is continuing,” said Scott. “This is the right time to fund much needed transportation improvements. These strategic investments will create construction jobs and lay the foundation for the private sector to move to Florida, expand business and create long-term jobs.”

The governor’s recommended Work Program budget of $8.3 billion ensures the FDOT plays a strong support role in achieving the governor’s economic and budget priorities. Building the links in the transportation network improves the movement of freight from suppliers to markets and provides employment opportunities for Florida’s families. The budget makes the following investments:

• ·         $3.6 billion for construction of highway projects;
• ·         $288 million in seaport infrastructure improvements;
• ·         $169 million for aviation improvements;
• ·         $287 million for bridge repair and replacement to include replacing 31 bridges;
• ·         $765 million for maintenance and operation;
• ·         $401 million for public-transit development grants; and
• ·         $144 million for safety initiatives.

For additional details on the governor’s Florida Families First Budget for FY 2014, visit www.floridafamiliesfirst.com.