SAN RAFAEL, CA -- Representative Lynn Woolsey (D-Petaluma) celebrated the first step in alleviating traffic congestion along Highway 101.
"The Marin Gap Closure project is a perfect example of how community organizations and local, state and federal government can work together to get things done," said Rep. Lynn Woolsey. "The Marin County Congestion Management Agency was one of the first organizations I met with after coming to Congress. They knew what they wanted and knew what they needed in order to get the Marin Gap Closure project started. Their focus and determination has paid off."

The Marin Gap Closure Project is a 4.5 mile project that will create a reversible lane from south of Lucky Drive to North San Pedro Road. The new southbound HOV (high occupancy vehicle) lane on Highway 101 will have a moveable barrier system allowing for northbound traffic during evening peak hours.

"The Marin Gap HOV project is an important step in improving transportation in Marin and Sonoma County, but we can’t stop there," said Rep. Woolsey. We must continue to explore transportation options and implement alternative forms of transportation that not only reduce congestion, but also have fewer deleterious affects on the environment.

"Next year, Congress will be reauthorizing the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21). I look forward to working with community organizations, environmental groups and local and state government to build a regional transit plan that is not limited to roads, but includes shuttle, rail, ferry, bus and public transportation powered by alternative fuels," said Rep. Woolsey.

TEA-21 is the major federal transportation legislation that authorizes all federal and surface transportation programs, including national highways and highway safety. TEA-21 was passed in 1998 and is scheduled for reauthorization in 2003.

The Federal Government’s share of the Marin Gap Closure Project was $30 million including $5.25 million Rep. Woolsey fought to add. The project is slated for completion in Winter 2005/2006.

Rep. Woolsey has secured over $100 million to improve transportation in California’s 6th District. These projects include improvements to the 101 freeway, increasing funds for public transportation, retrofitting the San Francisco Bay Bridge and securing funds for transportation projects that use renewable fuels.