Local transportation projects still a go in spite of budget cuts

State budget cuts have affected many areas of state government and many state projects, but local transportation projects came out pretty well even with the state losing about $500 million in transportation funding. The total from the state to the Department of Transportation in 2008-09 will be $8.2 billion, down from $8.4 billion last year.

Budget cuts will not affect projects now on the five-year work plan. Two projects that will continue on schedule are going to improve Interstate 10. One project scheduled to begin in 2009 is the widening of Interstate 10 west of Interstate 295. I-10 will be widened to six lanes to the Brannan Field/ Chaffee Road exits. The project is estimated at $78 million.

The I-10 interchange at Marietta will be replaced in 2012 at a cost of $61 million.

Other local projects now on the state's five-year work plan:

• Heckscher Drive will be widened to four lanes from Drummond Point to August Drive. Project will begin in 2009 and has a $28 million pricetag.
• Beach Boulevard widened from Hodges Boulevard to San Pablo Road in 2011. Cost $29 million.
• The bridges at Southampton Road and Hendricks Avenue (Interstate 95) will be replaced in 2012 for a cost of $87 million.
• Florida 9B from U.S. 1 to Florida 9A. Project scheduled for 2013 and is expected to cost $170 million.