CONCORD - Governor John Lynch and Transportation Commissioner George Campbell today announced that federal stimulus funds have made it possible for the state to pay for 35 municipal road and bridge projects across the state. The projects include 22 local bridges, 19 of which are red-listed bridges.

Stimulus funds, in conjunction with highway funds, will make it possible to cover 100 percent of the construction costs for the 35 projects.

"Many communities are struggling to being or complete critical projects, especially in these difficult economic times. These stimulus funds will allow us to cover 100 percent of the cost, allowing local communities to devote resources to other important projects," Governor Lynch said. "These stimulus funds have the dual benefit of replacing aging bridges which could pose a safety concern, and preserving and creating jobs."

""The bridge projects were selected by an application and review process that considered eligibility for federal funds, readiness for construction, bridge condition, volume of traffic, length of detour and access to critical facilities," said Commissioner Campbell. "In addition to the important local bridge projects, we are also providing 100 percent funding for four critical State Aid Highway projects and nine Transportation Enhancement projects."

For a complete list of projects go to: www.nh.gov/dot/recovery/documents/selected_municipal_arra-related_projects.pdf.

Information regarding the federal stimulus package can be found on the homepage Governor's Office of Economic Stimulus at www.nh.gov/recovery.