Billions in stimulus money

Billions in stimulus money won't go to transportation needs of neediest areas, analysis says

This review is about the billions in transportation stimulus dollars that President Barack Obama promoted as a way to create jobs shortchange counties that need the work the most. The Associated Press reviewed more than 5,500 planed transportation projects nationwide, where states plan to spend the first wave of highway money. Some states are planning to spend more than 50% more on roads and highways even though unemployment is at it lowest in years. The AP reviewed $18.9 billion in projects. They account for about half of the money set aside in the stimulus plan for states and local governments to spend on roads, bridges and infrastructure. The very promise that Obama made, to spend money quickly and create jobs, is locking out many communities that need those jobs. The money goes to projects ready to start. But many struggling communities couldn’t afford the millions of dollars for preparation and plans.