Contact: Christy Boardman/Tinisha Weigelt (202) 225-6365

Forbes Announces $300,000 for James River Advance Warning System

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Washington, Nov 18, 2005 - Congressman J. Randy Forbes (VA-04) announced $300,000 today for an Advanced Warning System for the James River Bridge located in Isle of Wight County. The $300,000 funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2006 Transportation, Treasury and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Conference Report which passed the House of Representatives today.

‘This funding will support a project that has multiple positive impacts for Isle of Wight that range in scope from travel convenience to life-saving communication in the event of emergency incidents or Amber Alerts,” Forbes said.

The funding will be used for the installation of variable message signs as a component of an Advanced Warning System for the James River Bridge. The signs would alert motorists of potential delays, alternate route suggestions, and bridge lifts and closings. The signs will also provide important communication in cases such as a Homeland Security threat or incident, dangerous weather conditions, and Amber Alerts.

The James River Bridge is 4.4 miles in length and serves more than 22,000 vehicles per day. The bridge provides a primary transportation link and serves as a major freight corridor within the Hampton Roads region.

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