By Patrick Roberts
CHATHAM, La. (KNOE 8 News) – Governor Bobby Jindal announced plans today to bond out half of the State Highway Improvement Fund to try to raise cash for road repairs.
At a short press conference this afternoon in Chatham, he said the plan would raise around $325 million to fix neglected roads in rural areas.
"We know that for our communities to grow and succeed, we have to invest in our infrastructure," the Governor said.
Highways tend to receive some federal funding, which helps states keep them in good condition.
Less traveled roads aren't eligible for that cash, which means less money for needed repairs.
The plan requires approval from the Legislature. It reconvenes in March.
"The reality is many of these roads have not received any major repairs in over 30 years, and that's simply unacceptable," he said.
"One of the reasons I know first hand that it's so important is that I've driven them, I've been on these roads."
Jindal also said the state has invested over $4 billion in transportation projects since he took office, and continuing that investment now, he said, would provide cash for up to 1,000 miles of road repairs in almost every parish across the state.
"It's important that we invest in every part of this state. And that includes our rural roads as well," Jindal said.
