“The Hot Springs Expressway is critical to meeting the transportation needs of a rapidly growing city,” Ross said.  “If anyone has driven on Central Ave at 5:30 in the afternoon, they understand the need for this extra driving room.  We worked hard to secure this funding during the 2003 appropriations process, and I am pleased to see this money come down so quickly so that this crucial project can keep moving.  The construction of the Hot Springs Expressway means safer roads, more jobs, and more economic opportunities for Garland County.” 

The funding will be released in the form of a Federal Highway Administration Border and Corridor grant on June 11, 2003.