Bart announces big bucks for local ferry system upgrades

NEWS RELEASE

CONGRESSMAN BART STUPAK 1ST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN

************************* Stupak announces $1,175,000 in stimulus funding funding for St. Marys River ferry system

WASHINGTON - U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded $1,175,000 for St. Marys River ferry dock upgrades.

The funding, provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), or economic stimulus bill, will be used to upgrade ferry docks at Drummond Island, Neebish Island/Barbeau and Sault Ste. Marie.

“Investing in our infrastructure is important for both our short-term economic recovery and our long-term economic growth,” Stupak said. “Stimulus funding for ferry docks in Northern Michigan will enhance the safety and efficiency of the St. Marys River ferry system and create economic activity in the affected communities. I am pleased the U.S. Department of Transportation has made this investment in Northern Michigan.”

The $1,175,000 for St. Marys River ferry dock upgrades will fund three individual projects.

The pier at Drummond Island will be lengthened to accommodate larger vessels; docks at Neebish Island/Barbeau will be modified to accommodate multiple vessels; and deteriorating dock pilings at Sault Ste. Marie will be replaced.

The funding was announced today by U.S Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood as part of $60 million in grants to 19 states and one U.S. territory to improve ferry service and save and create jobs under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Most of the projects selected are located in economically distressed areas and will address critical transportation needs.

The improvements will be made quickly to satisfy ARRA’s emphasis on immediate economic recovery through infrastructure investment.

Priority was given to projects that can be completed in two years or less.

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