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Governor Martz Directs DOT to Conduct Statewide Highway StudyFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HELENA--Governor Judy Martz on Wednesday, after consultation with the Department of Transportation Director David Galt, directed the department to conduct a highway study examining the economic impact of reconfiguring the state's two-lane highways. "In my campaign for governor, I indicated that the development of economic corridors was a critical component of a visionary, long-term economic stimulus effort," said Martz. "The safe and efficient movement of goods and services on four-lane highways will bring more economic opportunities to communities throughout Montana, which is why I have directed the department to study the exciting possibility for highway expansion throughout the state." The need for the study became apparent during the 2001 legislative session, Galt said. "In light of Senate Bill 3 requiring MDT to plan for a four-lane highway generally along US Highway 2 - and because of growing interest in construction of a four-lane route between Billings and Great Falls - the Governor and I have been discussing the most appropriate means of evaluating potential impact of highway expansion on the state," Galt said. Following her discussion with Galt, the Governor determined that MDT will fund a study evaluating the economic impact of reconfiguring two-lane highways across the state. As proposed, the study would be directed by an open steering committee with representatives from various sectors across the state. The committee would be charged with reviewing the state's highway systems to determine which reconfigurations would provide the greatest economic benefit to Montana. Funding for the study would come from MDT's highway research and planning money. This offer is unique because it is responsive to the needs of Montana. Said Martz, "We are making economic growth our priority and we must ensure that all areas of Montana are considered for highway construction dollars." # # # |
