“With the federal and state administrations looking to economic stimulus packages to aid states and communities struggling because of the economic turmoil, Rep. Tom Campbell has put together a list of needed projects in his 2nd District that can help create jobs and stimulate Washingtons economy.

President-elect Barack Obama is calling for a massive economic stimulus program to help the economy of the U.S., the 50 states, and local communities. In a meeting with 48 state governors earlier this month, including Gov. Chris Gregoire, Obama said his administration will work closely with Congress and the states to seek the wisest course for the future.

Obama asked the nations governors to help draft and shape a multibillion-dollar stimulus plan that also would aid states struggling with deficits. The economic stimulus package will be before Congress as soon as it convenes, and expects to get it passed before the end of January.

Gregoire had said Washington would need at least $600 million in federal money for short term road and bridge projects to help kick-start the states struggling economy.

Campbell has identified a number of projects in the 2nd District that are ready to move quickly, including Yelm Loop Road, a 4.2 mile two lane corridor that will loop State Routes 510 and 507 to bypass the Yelm city-center, relieving the city’s growing traffic congestion.

About 100 people could be employed during the construction, Campbell said, and they could get the project underway as early as April and complete the project by the end of 2009.

One of several worthy construction projects in Orting Campbell would like to see considered is a project that would complete signalization of the SR-162 Whitehawk Boulevard intersection. This would be the first phase of a project to provide a bypass to motorists traveling between SR-410 and the South Hill plateau, relieving congesting through Ortings downtown corridor.

Two other Orting projects ready to go are: the creation of two softball fields, one baseball field, two soccer fields and other park amenities; and a 40,000 gallon storage facility and other improvements which would give Orting a promising new opportunity to attract a Nestle Waters bottling facility that would provide 50 permanent family-wage jobs for Ortings economy.

And, Campbell is also encouraging federal or state stimulus assistance for Mashell Ave., Eatonvilles historic main street, which would be suitable for an Eatonville Downtown Plaza, a much needed improvement to revitalize Eatonville,” quoting Rep. Campbell’s December 30th Press Release.

Contact: Rep. Tom Campbell at (360) 786-7912 or campbell.tom@leg.wa.gov