Alabama adds over 2,400 construction jobs due to Recovery Act investments and projects.  “Alabama’s construction employment saw a gain of nearly 3 percent in April, according to federal jobs data analyzed by the Associated General Contractors of America. Construction employment hit 85,600 last month, a 2.9 percent increase over March, and a gain of 2,400 workers. But year-over-year employment dropped 8.7 percent, compared to April 2009, ranking it 28th in the country for the 12-month change. The AGC said stimulus-funded projects and growing demand for single-family construction helped boost employment figures in 29 states between March and April… ‘A gradual turnaround appears to be taking hold after years of construction employment declines,’ said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist, in a news release. ‘As more stimulus projects get underway and single-family housing starts pick up, we are likely to see the number of states with year-over-year increases grow.’” [Birmingham Business Journal, 5/21/10]

 

Director of Alabama Department of Economics called the Recovery Act energy efficient appliance rebate program “A great success for Alabama consumer and merchants.”  “Alabama consumers have snapped up the entire $4.2 million available for appliance rebates less than three weeks after the program started.  The Alabama Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate program reserved the final rebate Thursday of last week, reports the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. ‘The appliance rebate program has been a great success for Alabama consumers and merchants,’ ADECA Director Doni Ingram said. ‘Thousands of Alabamians are getting money back for replacing energy-hogging appliances while Alabama appliance retailers are reporting a boost in sales.’ Rebates for Energy Star refrigerators were the most popular followed by clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers and room air conditioners… ADECA is administering the rebate program from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act.” [Hartselle Enquirer, 5/13/10]

 

Representative Griffith praised the Recovery Act-funded Homebuyer Tax Credit as a ‘major help’ in reviving the local housing market.  “Citing the recent federal tax credit for first-time homebuyers as a ‘major help,’ U.S. Rep. Parker Griffith said the local housing market has improved considerably in recent months.  Griffith, R-Huntsville, made the remarks Tuesday at a 15-minute press conference at his Fifth Congressional District office on Clinton Avenue.  The press conference was held after Griffith met with the Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association.  ‘Over the last several years and months, there has been a lot of dismal economic news,’ Griffith said.  ‘I think we're beginning to see some real change, particularly in the housing market.’  First-time homebuyers had until last Friday to buy a home to qualify for the $8,000 federal tax credit. There was also a $6,500 tax credit for move-up/repeat homebuyers.  Local Realtors and real-estate executives say the tax credits have had an effect on the recent rise in home sales.  After record-breaking sales in November and December, there was a 65 percent increase in local home sales from February to March.”  [The Huntsville Times, 5/4/10]

 

Recovery Act funds will support a summer youth employment program that will offer 1,450 positions to 16-24 year olds in Alabama.  “The Governor's Office of Workforce Development (GOWD), the Department of Human Resources (DHR), the Department of Industrial Relations, and the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs are partnering to facilitate a Summer Youth Employment Program through the Alabama Career Center System for the 65-county Local Workforce Investment Area (LWIA), excluding Jefferson and Mobile counties.  The program is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) stimulus funds… The Summer Youth Employment Program is designed to employ youth 16-24 years old.  The program will operate between May 3, 2010, and August 13, 2010.  Eligible youth will be paid $7.25 per hour for 35 hours per week for the equivalent of eight (8) weeks or a maximum of 280 hours.  There are approximately 1,450 positions available.  WIA will fund about 925 participants and TANF about 525 participants… Real work experience in clerical, health care, state park and building maintenance, and landscaping will provide participants with a better understanding of future employment and training options.”  [WTVM, 4/19/10]

  

A $200,000 Recovery Act grant was awarded to DiscoveryBioMed Inc. to expand the company’s research into anti-inflammatory compounds.  “DiscoveryBioMed Inc., a Innovation Depot business incubator company, has received a $200,000 small business grant from the National Institutes of Health.  The Birmingham-based company said the grant is part of President Barack Obama's $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The money will pay for continuing research into anti-inflammatory compounds holding promise for dermatitis, nasal and pulmonary inflammation and kidney disorders with an inflammatory component… DiscoveryBioMed is a tenant at Innovation Depot, the business incubator opened in 2007 by University of Alabama at Birmingham, Jefferson County and the city of Birmingham, along with nonprofit groups such as the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, to capitalize on research and development efforts in the Magic City.  The federal funding will maintain existing jobs, generate new ones and lead to new discoveries, Schwiebert said.  DiscoveryBioMed was founded in 2007.  The company employs four people fulltime, and two part-timers who will move to full time because of the grant.  ‘It is very important for us financially,’ Schiewbert said. ‘It will enable us to do more research into this vital area.’” [Birmingham News, 4/16/10]

 

The University of South Alabama received a $7.5 million Recovery Act grant to help Alabama doctors transition from paper to electronic records.  “The University of South Alabama will help doctors statewide transition to electronic record-keeping, thanks to a $7.5 million federal grant… Funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the grant came through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  Awarded to the Center for Strategic Health Innovation in USA's College of Medicine, the grant is one of the largest in the university's history, according to USA officials.  Earlier this year, USA's College of Medicine got $14.5 million in stimulus money to build a new research laboratory.  Roach said electronic records would eliminate the voluminous amounts of paperwork in doctor's offices… Roach, a physician and director of medical of informatics in the Center for Strategic Health Innovation, said the new grant will also help create jobs statewide as trainers show physicians how to implement and use electronic systems.” [Press-Register, 4/13/10]

 

13 students graduate from the ICademy program; the Recovery Act funded program trains graduates for jobs as home health aides and welders.  “Students from the ICademy Prep program are the first to graduate since the ICademy program was born about a year ago.  ‘St. Clair County has a place to train workers now,’ said Don Smith, executive director of the Economic Development Council.  ‘That’s one of the great benefits of the ICademy.  It houses state-of-the-art equipment for these programs.’  Friday night students from the ICademy Prep program were presented Certificates of Completions at Jefferson State Community College in Pell City.  Six women were recognized after they finished their training as home health aides, the third fasting growing occupations in the country, said Christine McLain, a career counselor for the ICademy Prep program.  Officials say the St. Clair County ICademy program helped secure grants so these six woman and others could receive training for the changing job market.  Seven students, who graduated from a welding training program, were also recognized Friday and commended for their work… Officials say the programs these women and men completed were funded by a U.S. Department of Labor grant.  The grant was made available with stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.” [St. Clair Times, 4/6/10]

 

Construction begins on a 100% Recovery Act-funded sidewalk project that will eventually link to an extended walkway system in Robertsdale.  “A new sidewalk down Ala. 104 provided through a $268,000 federal stimulus grant will link Oscar Johnson Park with the rest of the town, officials said Wednesday.  ‘The goal is to have sidewalks all around town eventually,’ Wilson said.  ‘It will just depend on when we can get grants.’  The project will also include a covered pedestrian bridge over Silver Creek near the park… The sidewalk grant is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, sometimes called the federal stimulus bill.  Wilson said the grant provides 100 percent of the money for the construction… Wilson said local officials hope that the Silverhill sidewalk will link to an extended Robertsdale walkway system in the future, providing pedestrian access between the two central Baldwin communities.  The sidewalk will be a major improvement for Silverhill, said resident Mary deLaunay, one of the volunteers setting up the reception for the ceremony Thursday.” [Press-Register, 3/25/10]

 

Tuscaloosa County’s rural roads will see long-awaited improvements finally come to fruition thanks to Recovery Act funding.  “Long-sought improvements to two rural Tuscaloosa County roads are expected to be under way within months.  The County Commission on Wednesday approved funding agreements with the Alabama Department of Transportation for projects on Hagler-Coaling and Romulus roads.  The larger project – repaving a five-mile section of Hagler-Coaling Road – will cost an estimated $1.22 million, and will be paid for with federal stimulus money… Advertising for bids will be the next step for both projects and will be handled by ALDOT because federal dollars are involved.  Work could begin on the projects, which have been discussed for years, within 60 to 90 days, Springer said.  No county dollars are required for the Hagler-Coaling project, Springer said.  It will be paid for entirely with money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  This work will repair the road between U.S. Highway 82 and Clements Road, and will involve plowing up the existing pavement and mixing cement with the base material to strengthen it.  The section will then be repaved.” [Tuscaloosa News, 3/18/10]

 

University Of Alabama will use $81 million Recovery Act funding to pay for medical research such as the treatment of alcoholism and cancer.  “UAB had a record year for grants and other awards in 2009, bringing in an extra $50 million to hit the $485 million mark, thanks to a big boost from the federal stimulus.  So far, the university has been promised more than $81 million from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for research as well as infrastructure and other needs.  According to federal and UAB data, that money – some of which comes from the state's share of recovery funds for education – has helped create or hold on to the equivalent of 312 full-time jobs… Most of the research money UAB brings in comes from the National Institutes of Health, which had flatlined funding until last year, when the federal government released more than $10 billion to the agency in hope of stimulating the economy… Because many of those dollars are attached to two-year grants, that money should be set for 2010 as well, he said.  The grants will pay for research in a range of medical-related subjects, from treatments for alcoholism to cancer.” [The Birmingham News, 3/16/10]

 

Recovery Act funds weatherization of 733 Alabamian homes and is expected to improve over 6,600 homes in the course of three years.  “With a boost from federal stimulus money, Alabama's weatherization program is off to a quick start toward its three-year goal of weatherizing more than 6,600 homes.  Repairs and upgrades to improve energy efficiency have been made to 733 Alabama houses, and state officials say the pace of completion is accelerating.  ‘Alabama has already exceeded 10 percent of its goal, which is well ahead of much of the nation,’ said Doni Ingram, director of the Alabama Department of Economic Affairs… Congress appropriated stimulus funds to the program to support jobs in the construction industry and to help more low- and moderate-income families cut their utility bills.  Specially trained contractors are hired to make structural improvements that will increase the energy efficiency of houses selected for weatherization… Toney Pitts, housing and weatherization coordinator for the Huntsville agency, said the stimulus program has had a very positive impact.  ‘It's a good program,’ Pitts said.  ‘We do a lot of improvements that families couldn't afford to have done on their own, and it makes a difference.  You can walk in many houses after weatherization and just feel the difference.’” [WAFF 48 News, 3/4/10]

 

Morgan County received $18.2 million in Recovery Act funding for shovel-ready projects and are reviewing applications for potential uses.  “Morgan County Commission has received an allocation of $18.2 million in two types of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.  Now, it is searching for local government entities interested in obligating themselves for a portion of the money as a means of financing shovel-ready capital improvement projects… Of the total allocation, $7.293 million is in E Recovery Zone Economic Development Bonds and $10.9 million is in Recovery Zone Facility Bonds… The bonds are to be issued as a loan with 45 percent of the interest paid being eligible for reimbursement.” [Hartselle Enquirer, 3/3/10]

 

Wallace Community College will expand its nursing program with a $135,477 Recovery Act grant.  “Wallace Community College has received federal stimulus funding to expand its certified nursing assistant program. The program allows a quick path to an entry level position in health care. Sally Buchanan, a Wallace Community College spokesperson, said the college received an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Grant of $135,477 to start a Certified Nursing Assistant class at the college’s Sparks campus in Eufaula. The college also got a Center for Economic and Workforce Development Expansion Grant of $42,532 to upgrade training equipment in Dothan.  The CNA program is an 18-day course that can produce workers qualified as nursing assistants or home health care workers.” [Dothan Eagle, 2/25/10]

 

Nonprofit organization uses Recovery Act funds for an employment service to help Lawrence and Morgan County residents find work.  “Plagued by businesses closing and companies downsizing, the unemployment rate in Morgan County reached 10.6 percent in December.  In Law­rence County the numbers are even bleaker, with 13.3 percent of residents unable to find jobs.  To reverse the numbers, a local nonprofit organization designated sti­mulus funds to develop an employment services program to help people find jobs…’ The purpose of this program is to connect the chronically unemployed and those who recently lost their jobs with job opportunities,’ said Mi­chael Tubbs, executive director of the Community Action Partnership of North Alabama.  The Partnership allocated $183,495 to accomplishing the task, with funds stemming from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, more commonly referred to as the stimulus.” [Decatur Daily News, 2/25/10]

 

Alabama receives $6 million in Recovery Act grant for green jobs training.  “The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs was awarded a $6 million grant for ‘green’ job training and establishing the Alabama Energy Sector Partnership program.  ‘This grant not only will help Alabamians reduce energy costs, it also will provide employment opportunities for many residents,’ said ADECA Director Doni Ingram in a press release Jan. 20.  The funding for the program came from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009… ‘The stimulus money the president has put forward and the ADECA just got is to create specific new jobs,’ said Richard Burt, head of the building science department.  ‘I would imagine in the construction field they would be things like weatherization, manufacturing ‘green’ products and those sorts of things.’” [Auburn Plainsman, 1/28/10]

 

$3.89 million in Recovery Act funds to provide broadband internet service in rural Alabama.  “Today, TDS Telecommunications Corp. (TDS®) received notification from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that its application to expand broadband Internet services to TDS customers in the Grove Hill, Ala. area has been approved.  TDS will receive $3,892,919 to expand its services within Clarke County… ‘Certainly this project in Alabama exemplifies the need for high-speed Internet connections in rural America,’ says Andrew Petersen, director of external affairs and communications for TDS.  ‘TDS is delighted to receive the $3.9 million award and looks forward to beginning construction to expand Internet services to more customers in southwestern Alabama.’” [TDS Press Release, 1/25/10]

 

Regulators and homeowners happy with Recovery Act weatherization program.  “The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs recently conducted an on-site review for compliance with state and federal regulations and guidelines.  Also evaluated during the visit was the performance level of contractors the agency hires to weatherize homes.  ADECA's three-person oversight team… visited homes weatherized with Recovery Act funds.  Executive Director Gary Lewis proudly displays a message from President Barack Obama that says, ‘Gary Lewis, Please Make Certain Your Agency's WAP Stimulus is Spent Wisely.’  ‘We take the president's request very seriously and make every effort to spend taxpayer dollars wisely,’ Lewis said… When weatherization client Janis Redden was asked if she noticed any real changes in her utility bills, her response was, ‘Yes.’  Redden added, ‘Before weatherization, my gas bill was running $300 to $400 a month.  Since I got weatherization, my bill is $194 a month,’ she said.  One weatherization client, Rebecca Griffith, noted in a questionnaire that she had been in her home for 20 years, but feels comfortable for the first time.” [Gadsden Times, 1/24/10]

 

$6 million in Recovery Act funds to train Alabamians for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Jobs.  “Alabama has received $6 million in federal stimulus funds to train people to qualify for jobs in emerging industries focused on renewable energy and energy efficiency.  The grant from the U.S. Department of Labor was awarded to the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.  ADECA Director Doni Ingram said Wednesday the training program will teach the skills for energy-efficient construction and retrofits, renewable electric power, energy-efficient and advanced drive-train vehicle manufacturing, biofuels and energy-efficiency assessment. Ingram said the grant will help workers who are struggling in the economic downturn develop skills for an emerging industry.” [Associated Press, 1/22/10]

 

$276,558 in Recovery Act funding assists Elmore County’s Drug Task Force.  “Gov. Bob Riley recently stepped up his efforts in trying to help reduce illegal drug activities and crime in Elmore County.  Riley awarded an economic stimulus grant of $276,558 to assist the county's drug task force, which combines resources and personnel from the Elmore County Sheriff's Office, Wetumpka Police Department and the Poarch Creek Tribal Police… The unit focuses its efforts towards investigations, arrests, prosecution of offenders and dismantling of methamphetamine labs, while working with neighboring counties, state and federal agencies involved in drug investigations.  The grant will be administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, which will use funds made available from the U.S. Department of Justice as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.” [Montgomery Advertiser, 1/20/10]

 

Recovery Act funds to reimburse Alabama employers for wages paid to new hires as part of JOBS program.  “A new state initiative will temporarily reimburse employers for wages paid to new hires currently receiving government assistance.  The initiate, an extension of the Department of Human Resource’s JOBS ‘welfare to work’ program, will be supported largely by federal stimulus funds.  Employers who hire individuals and are part of DHR’s Family Assistance Program may be eligible to be reimbursed for 100 percent of gross wages paid to each qualifying individual for up to six months, Buckner said… Eighty percent of the cost of the subsidized employment initiative comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… Surtees said some 112 JOBS participants have already been hired through the program, working 17,297 hours with an average wage of $8.24 an hour.” [DeKalb County Times-Journal, 1/19/10]

 

Construction of multi-purpose Boaz High school facility funded with $4.125 in Recovery Act funds.  “The money is in the bank,’ Superintendent Leland Dishman declared Thursday at the monthly meeting of the Boaz Board of Education.  Dishman was referring to $4,125,000 in federal stimulus money that will be used to build a multi-purpose facility at the high school.  The facility will include a 1,400-seat gymnasium.  ‘We can go ahead with our construction plans,’ Dishman said of the project, which has been in the works for some time…  Following next week's meeting, the committee that has been working on the facility will get together to form the final proposals.  Ross said it will be at least two months before anything can be done on the project.” [Gadsden Times, 1/18/10]

 

$2.5 million in Recovery Act employs over 30 on construction projects improving quality of life, energy efficiency at Central Alabama veterans health care centers.  “CAVHCS has been budgeted to spend more than $2.5 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) or Stimulus Bill funding, designed to not only assist the American economy in the short term, but benefit Veterans for years to come… One of the major ARRA projects is the renovation of CAVHCS’ Nursing Home… CAVHCS’ ongoing Nursing Home project is employing more than 30 tradesmen and laborers from nearby Andalusia, and both major projects were awarded to service-disabled, veteran-owned businesses, which translates directly to veterans helping veterans… To use energy and water more efficiently, facilities department-wide are replacing or upgrading windows and roofs; automating lighting controls and energy management systems; installing low-flow faucets and toilets and other water-conserving equipment; installing variable-volume air handling units; and enhancing boiler control systems and tune-ups.” [Tuskegee News, 1/7/10]

 

Recovery Act grant will help a Montgomery-based facility provide health care to nearly 25,000 uninsured and underinsured people in the area.  “An $11.2 million federal stimulus grant will help about 25,000 uninsured and underinsured people in the area receive health care.  The funds will enable Health Services Inc., a Montgomery indigent health care provider, to replace a 42-year-old clinic with a larger facility so that it can offer primary care to 25,000 additional people currently going without it.  HSI, a private nonprofit that operates 10 federally qualified health centers in the River Region, was notified Wednesday that it is one of 85 providers in the country being awarded a piece of $600 million in funds available through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants.  HSI's award, which was the only grant of its kind awarded in Alabama, will serve the uninsured and underinsured in the area and ease the strain on local emergency rooms… An obvious need was replacing the Lister Hill clinic, which was built in 1967.  So when the federal government announced it would be awarding federal stimulus grants for major construction and renovation projects and to help health centers adopt more modern information technology systems, the River Region was ready.” [Montgomery Advertiser, 12/9/09]

 

Recovery Act grant will help Montgomery Public Schools install energy-efficient, double-paned windows to make winters warmer and sum­mers cooler for students.  “On Monday, state Rep. Greg Wren presented Montgomery Public Schools officials with a $431,600 energy grant to replace 218 windows at the high school with energy-efficient, double-paned windows that are sure to make winters warmer and sum­mers cooler for students, school officials said.  LAMP also will be getting new energy-efficient window air-con­ditioning units using the grant, which is being administered by the Alabama Department of Eco­nomic and Community Affairs, Wren said… The funds Gov. Bob Riley awarded to LAMP were part of $5 million made available to Ala­bama schools from the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Wren said…’  For years kids have been suf­fering in classrooms,’ Davis said of LAMP.  ‘The new energy-efficient windows will make it a much more comfortable place for students to learn in.” [Montgomery Advertiser, 12/1/09]

 

Recovery Act grant will help up to 40 automobile suppliers in Alabama reduce energy costs and retain employees.  “Gov. Bob Riley announced Wednesday a federal stimulus grant award of $600,000 to help automobile suppliers in the state reduce energy costs and retain employees.  The University of Alabama in Huntsville was granted the money to help up to 40 suppliers increase energy efficiency and reduce waste in the manufacturing process, said a news release.  ‘Automotive manufacturing has become a vital component of Alabama’s diverse economy,’ Riley said.  ‘Helping these manufacturers reduce waste and cut energy costs will boost their competitiveness and provide increased job security for many Alabamians.’”  [Birmingham Business Journal, 11/25/09]

 

Birmingham, Alabama uses Recovery Act funds to improve its transit system.  “An Anniston company says the Birmingham's transit system is buying 12 new buses from the company at a cost of $5 million, using federal stimulus funds.  The Anniston Star reports that North American Bus Industries says the project is one of many under the stimulus program that is helping the company stay busy… Birmingham's transit agency was awarded a stimulus grant of $8.7 million to purchase new buses, rehabilitate a maintenance garage and to buy equipment to clean and repair buses.  Gibson says the buses being sold to Birmingham will run on compressed natural gas.” [WHNT, 11/25/09]

 

Recovery Act money helps homeless in Huntsville.  “For the homeless and those on the verge of becoming homeless, nearly $530,000 in federal stimulus money is now available.  The City of Huntsville learned in April it would get the money to help the needy, and in August, it notified five local agencies that federal Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing money would be funneled through them.  On Tuesday it was announced the money is now in hand, and applicants can register for help… Nationally, $1.5 billion has been set aside for the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program, which is overseen by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.  Across Alabama, $13.3 million has been divvied up.” [Huntsville Times, 11/25/09]

 

70 Alabama schools will receive Recovery Act grants for energy improvements.  “Gov. Bob Riley’s press office announced Tuesday stimulus grants for 70 Alabama schools for improvements that will save energy and reduce utility bills.  The awards include a $431,600 grant for the Montgomery County Board of Education to replace 218 windows at Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School with new models that hold in more warm air in the winter and cool air in the summer.  In addition to wasting energy, cracks in current window casings have resulted in moisture damage in classrooms.  The grants totaling $4 million will fund upgrades at schools in 14 systems in Alabama.” [Montgomery Advertiser, 11/24/09]

 

University of Alabama created or retained 51 jobs thanks to Recovery Act-funded research and other projects on campus.  “The University of Alabama has been allotted just more than $32 million in federal stimulus money so far… About $6 million came to UA through competitive federal grants, most for research… UA’s stimulus money has created or retained seven jobs… UAB reports 51 jobs.” [Tuscaloosa News, 11/22/09]

 

Auburn University used Recovery Act-funded grant for construction of research facility; projects including construction have enabled Auburn to create or retain 426 jobs.  “Auburn University… has been awarded more than $66 million, with $51 million in grants pending.  The total awarded includes $46.5 million in fiscal stabilization money for Auburn’s main campus, Auburn University-Montgomery and the Alabama Cooperative System.  Auburn’s roughly $20 million total in competitive grants also includes a $14.4 million grant through the U.S. Department of Commerce to help pay for the construction of a research facility... That construction grant makes Auburn the leader for state universities in jobs created or retained from stimulus money through the end of October with 426 jobs, according to the university.” [Tuscaloosa News, 11/22/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will expand production at Coosa River Hydroelectric Plants.  “Under the umbrella of the Department of Energy’s renewable energy funding, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced last week that up to $30.6 million in stimulus funds would go into modernizing seven hydropower projects.  While $30.6 million doesn’t sound like much in the context of the $2.2 billion in renewable energy grants in all that were announced, the DOE estimates that the dam upgrades could increase generation by 187,000 megawatt-hours per year at an average cost of less than 4 cents per kWh — all without building new dams.  In addition to benefiting a handful of cities and utilities, the funding is a boon to companies with technologies, such as high-efficiency fish-friendly turbines and advanced control systems… The funded projects are divided into two groups: those with more than 50 MW of capacity and those with less.  The former group includes up to $6 million for Alabama Power Company, which will replace vintage turbines at three hydroelectric plants on the Coosa River… In the best-case scenario, the Recovery Act funding of hydropower modernization projects will help stimulate other similar modernization projects, and dams that are simply obsolete and really do live up to the bad dam stereotype will eventually be removed.” [Solve Climate, 11/12/09]

 

Drug Task Force in Alabama will use Recovery Act funds to pay overtime and buy new vehicles.  “The Baldwin County Drug Task Force will receive $465,705 in economic stimulus funds, according to the governor's office.  The grant money will be used to help the unit investigate, arrest and prosecute drug offenders.  The Baldwin County Drug Task Force is a specialized law enforcement unit composed of representatives from the district attorney's office, the sheriff's office and the police departments of Bay Minette, Daphne and Orange Beach.  Sheriff Huey ‘Hoss’ Mack Jr. said funds would largely be used for buying vehicles, equipment to improve technology and other electronics, though the money could go toward other uses too… Gov. Bob Riley awarded a total of $940,705 in stimulus funds to south Alabama. The Mobile County Street Enforcement Narcotics Team was also awarded a $475,000 grant.  ‘As coastal counties, Mobile and Baldwin are vulnerable to illegal drugs transported over water routes as well as by air and land routes, including the two interstate highways that serve the area,’ Riley said in a written statement. ” [Press Register, 11/8/09]

 

A $6 million Recovery Act allocation will help Alabama Power Co. upgrade electrical generating units at three dams.  “The U.S. Department of Energy is allocating up to $6 million of federal stimulus money to help Alabama Power Co. upgrade electrical generating units at three dams on the Coosa River.  Alabama Power spokesman Michael Sznajderman says the $6 million will help with a $30 million project to upgrade two generating units at Lay Dam, one at Bouldin Dam and one at Jordan Dam. The Department of Energy said replacing equipment that is 40 or more years old should increase the electrical generation at the dams by more than 7 percent.” [Associated Press, 11/6/09]

 

Alabama will use Recovery Act grant to set up broadband.  “Alabama is slated to receive $1.9 million in federal stimulus grants for broadband Internet mapping and planning activities in the state.  The NTIA [National Telecommunications and Information Administration] said Alabama’s funds were awarded to the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.  Approximately $1.4 million will go toward broadband data collection and mapping activities over a two-year period, said a news release, and about $463,000 will go toward broadband planning activities over the same time period.” [Birmingham Business Journal, 11/6/09]

 

The University of Alabama has created seven new research positions with a $32.1 million Recovery Act grant.  “The University has been awarded $32.1 million dollars in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding, as well as the state’s allocation in its fiscal stabilization fund.  The money will be used in research projects, infrastructure improvements and job creation and retention… The University of Alabama at Birmingham received millions from the National Institute of Health because UAB is known for its research in medicine, Benson said… According to OMB employees, the University created seven new jobs by the beginning of October and expects to continue to apply for additional funding. ” [The Crimson White, 11/2/09]

 

Recovery Act has created or retained more than 4,500 jobs in Alabama.  “[M]ore than $1 billion in federal stimulus money has been made available so far to state agencies and colleges… Alabama has met the federal government’s first deadline to report use of stimulus funds.  And that report… shows $1 billion in available stimulus money has created or retained more than 4,500 jobs in the state, with about $531 million expended as of Sept. 30.  This is the first of the quarterly reports that Congress is requiring from states to show how the allotted stimulus money is being spent.  The state of Alabama is slated to receive about $3 billion.” [Birmingham Business Journal, 10/14/09]

 

Alabama will use new Recovery Act funding to make prisons and schools more energy efficient and provide an energy revolving loan fund to create and retain jobs.  “Alabama has received an additional $27 million in federal stimulus funds for energy programs.  [Secretary of Energy Steven] Chu said Alabama will use part of the funds to create an energy revolving loan fund to stimulate the creation and retention of jobs.  Some will be used to make prisons and schools more energy efficient.  Money will also be used to help auto suppliers improve their energy efficiency.” [Montgomery Adviser, 10/8/09]

 

The Associated Builders and Contractors reported an 8.9 percent increase in the nation’s construction backlog for July, a measured boost in work for construction companies thanks to the Recovery Act funded infrastructure projects.  “According to the Associated Builders and Contractors trade group, the nation’s construction backlog for July rose 8.9 percent to 6.1 months.  The backlog is a measure of how much work construction companies have.  The increased business is all coming from infrastructure projects, not new housing developments or factories.  ‘The stimulus passed in February is turning into contracts, actually money being spent,’ says the trade group’s chief economist Anirban Basu.  ‘It’s mostly road resurfacing, water and sewer projects.  That’s the fastest way to get money out the door.’” [Business Week, 9/23/09]

 

State officials will use $6 Million in Recovery Act funds to protect 100,000 Acres of Alabama’s land.  Cogon grass is a killer, and it's taking over Alabama from the coast up… Pecot's Alabama Cogongrass Control Center is developing a strategy to stop the northward spread of the plant, which has no natural predators… [I]t covers at least 100,000 acres of Alabama land, though no one knows for sure… ‘It's such a thick colonizer that it actually, underneath the ground, robs others plants of the ability to take up any nutrients or moisture,’ said Bill Baisden, assistant state forester for the Alabama Forestry Commission.  ‘That's why they call it... the perfect weed.’  The Alabama Forestry Commission was awarded $6 million in federal stimulus money to combat cogon grass… It aims only to eradicate the weed north of U.S. 80 – a road that runs across the state from Meridian, Miss., to Columbus, Ga. – and along the Georgia border.” [Alabama Local News, 9/14/09]

 

Birmingham received a Recovery Act grant to purchase energy efficient heat pumps that will save the city $250,000 a year in heating and cooling costs.  “The city of Birmingham received a $2.5 million federal stimulus grant to purchase energy efficient heat pumps at eight city recreation center gymnasiums.  The city’s Department of Public Works applied for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant to buy geo-thermal ground source heat pumps that will take well water from the ground water table for heating and cooling needs at the recreation centers, the city said in a news release.  The new pumps will save the city $250,000 a year in heating and cooling costs. Gymnasiums where the new devices will be installed are in Central Park, Ensley, McAlpine, Hooper City, Inglenook, Martin Luther King, North Birmingham and Wiggins.” [Birmingham Business Journal, 9/10/09]

 

Mobile will begin first Recovery Act-funded resurfacing project on September 14.  “Mobile's first infrastructure project through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Stimulus) will begin in two weeks. Crews will begin the milling/resurfacing of Spring Hill Avenue on Monday September 14, 2009.  The section from McGregor to the I-65 West Service Rd. will be completed first and then the section from the I-65 East Service Rd. to the Moffett Road split will be completed next.  The duration of the project is expected to be approximately two weeks.  Some minimal traffic delays should be expected.  This is a Stimulus project that the Alabama Department of Transportation is administering the construction of on behalf of the City of Mobile.” [Fox Channel 10 News, 9/3/09] 

 

Complaints against Alabama DOT were inaccurate:  Recovery Act-funded contract awarded to GA company has resulted in subcontracts to Alabama firms.  “Alabama's Department of Transportation was criticized in June when it awarded the state's largest stimulus-funded highway project – rebuilding 11 miles of Interstate 59 in Etowah County – to an out-of-state business.  But records show that most of the subcontractors and material suppliers hired by Kentucky-based Hinkle Contracting for the $37.4 million project are Alabama firms.  State companies make up five of the nine subcontractors hired to work on the project, which gets under way Sept. 8 with widening the road's shoulders.  And five of the six major materials suppliers are from Alabama.” [Birmingham News, 8/29/09] 

 

Geographic Solutions won Recovery Act-funded contract to revamp North Baldwin Lift Stations with energy efficient pumps, will start work within 75 days.  “North Baldwin Utilities will be replacing two old lift stations with newer, more efficient models, using federal stimulus funds awarded through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.  The $500,000 Community Development Block grant is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Fund, managed by the federal department of Housing and Urban Development.  The grant will be matched by $100,000 in local contributions through labor and engineering services, said Jason Padgett, NBU general manager.  The utilities board has contracted with Geographic Solutions in Bay Minette for engineering services.  Padgett said NBU will totally revamp the lift stations on Railroad Street and South Dobson Avenue, replacing the old ‘'60s models’ with ‘with new, green, efficient pumps.’” [The Mobile Press-Register, 8/24/09] 

 

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management was awarded Recovery Act funds to improve aging water and wastewater infrastructure.  “The Alabama Department of Environmental Management was awarded more than $63 million to improve aging water and wastewater infrastructure in the state.  The federal stimulus funds will be used by state and local governments for much needed improvements on water projects that are essential to public health and the environment, said a news release.  Nearly $44 million will go through the state’s Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program and nearly $20 million will go through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program.” [Birmingham Business Journal, 8/20/09] 

 

Thanks to Recovery Act grant, construction of Athens Trail will begin in January.  “Athens will spend its share of federal economic-stimulus money to extend a city walking trail… The money comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009… Athens recently received $384,725 to extend the walking trail along Forrest Street, according to Public Works Director James Rich, who applied for the money.  The trail will connect the U.S. 31 walking trail at Forrest Street to the Swan Creek Trail and will parallel Forrest to the intersection of Lindsay Lane, then go south along Lindsay to Eastside Junction, where Publix and other businesses are located.  Work on the nearly two-mile concrete, asphalt and gravel trail may begin after the first of the year, Rich said.” [The News Courier, 8/19/09]   

 

Limestone, Alabama plans to use Recovery Act funds to pay workers to perform plumbing, construction, and bridge repairs, and to purchase law enforcement technology.  “Limestone County will spend its share by improving a bridge, helping create an events center, improving energy efficiency in county buildings, linking county computers via fiber-optic cable and buying video equipment for use by law-enforcement officials.  The money comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009… Limestone County Commission Chairman David Seibert said he is not sure how much the county will receive until it receives the checks, however, he does have some estimates: $300,000 in road money to improve a county bridge; $250,000 to build a new senior center at Tanner; $100,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission to create a faster and more reliable connection between telephones and computers between county buildings; this improvement also allows judges to arraign jail prisoners via videoconference, which saves time and prevents having to transport prisoners to the courthouse.” [The News Courier, 8/19/09] 

 

Five Huntsville agencies will use Recovery Act funds to assist the homeless.  “The City of Huntsville announced Friday distribution of almost $530,000 in federal stimulus funds to five local agencies that assist the homeless.  At a meeting of the North Alabama Coalition for the Homeless, city community development specialist Turkeesa Coleman-Lacey said the money would be divided this way: $150,000 for Family Services Center; $150,000 for First Stop homeless day center; $125,000 for The Pathfinder residential drug rehabilitation program: $75,000 for Crisis Services of North Alabama; and $29,697 for NACH's homeless management information system… Money can be used for utility deposits, utility payments, rental assistance, reasonable moving costs, motel vouchers, case management, legal services and housing search. It cannot be used for mortgage payments, employment training, child care, costs of refinancing a mortgage, consumer debt, food, clothing or medical care.” [Huntsville Times, 8/14/09] 

 

Alabama Symphony Orchestra received a Recovery Act-funded grant from the NEA, allowing educational programs to continue.  “The Alabama Symphony Orchestra will receive a $50,000 grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.  The ASO is one of three arts organizations in Birmingham and 631 in the nation to receive the highly competitive grant administered through the National Endowment for the Arts… One-time grants were awarded from those funds to eligible nonprofit organizations for projects that focus on the preservation of jobs in the arts.   The ASO grant will support its director of artistic administration, education manager and Bruno Walter Assistant Conductor Chair positions, all essential to delivering ASO's education programs.  ‘At a time when budget pressures are causing many orchestras to cut back on education programs, this award makes it much easier for the ASO to continue our strong commitment to education,’ says Curt Long, executive director of the Alabama Symphony.” [Mobile Press-Register, 8/6/09]

 

The Chana High School Special education program used Recovery Act funds to hire students to refurbish a garden.  “Over the past couple of months, several Chana High School students were given an outdoor alternative to the typical summer job.  Chana was awarded a $21,500 grant as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which the school’s special education program used to refurbish a garden, and to hire students to do it.  Sharon Williams of the Golden Sierra Job Training Agency was the liaison between the grant and the Placer Union High School District.  She explained that in order to qualify for employment paid by the grant, students had to have a low-income, disability, or other circumstances that might make it difficult for them to find a job.  The students were paid minimum wage and supervised by Chana High teachers in rebuilding a greenhouse, re-fencing the garden, and clearing a trail to a picnic area and volleyball court.” [Auburn Journal, 8/3/09]

 

Enterprise will use Recovery Act funds on Rucker Blvd improvements, traffic signal installation that had been stalled for two years due to lack of funds.  “City officials began lobbying for the resurfacing of Rucker Boulevard in its entirety more than two years ago and lobbying efforts were successful last year when ALDOT agreed to begin the project. The project was unfortunately cut short, however, when state funding ran low and left only one-third of Rucker Boulevard resurfaced… ‘We have had the traffic light actually warranted for quite some time, but we had to wait until there was money allocated for it,’ Boswell explained… The traffic signal, Boswell said, is another step the city is taking to make motorists safe.” [Southeast Sun, 7/15/09]

 

Alabama slated for Recovery Act grant to finance rebate incentives for energy-efficient appliance purchases. “Alabama is set to receive over $4 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for consumer purchases of Energy Star qualified home appliances.  The funding is part of the Obama administrations attempt to make American homes more energy efficient, while encouraging economic recovery.” [WSFA – NBC, 7/14/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will go to Montevallo Police Department to expand its K9 unit; “couldn’t come at a better time,” according to police chief. “The Montevallo Police Department has received a federal matching grant to bulk up its K-9 unit, said Chief Steve Holt. Holt announced during Monday’s city council meeting that the department was awarded $16,856 from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act signed into law by President Barack Obama.” [Shelby County Reporter, 7/14/09]

 

The University of South Alabama received Recovery Act-funded research grants.  “The University of South Alabama has received $2.3 million in research grants from the federal stimulus package in the first round of announced funding… Lea said another part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides facility grants to renovate existing or build new buildings, which could be a boost to the area's economy.” [AP, 7/12/09]

 

Alabama will use Recovery Act funds for a landscaping and beautification project across the state. “Mayor Tony Petelos said news of 100 percent federal funding comes as the city is completing the spruce-up of the Alford Avenue interchange, which is the first Hoover exit on I-65 South and the entrance to the Shades Mountain neighborhood.  The city in March accepted a $229,514 bid from Forestry Environmental Services for that project.” [Birmingham News, 7/8/09]

 

$4 Million in Recovery Act money allotted for overdue road rehabilitation in Huntsville.  “A piece of the stimulus pie is coming right here to Huntsville. The money will be used to patch up more than a dozen of the city's busiest roads.  Huntsville's getting $4 million, funds that Mayor Battle rallied for in Montgomery and Washington.  Area drivers said it'll definitely be money well spent.  If you drive on Huntsville's streets, your often bumpy ride is about to get a lot smoother. From cracks to massive potholes, some of the worst roads are about to be made over.” [WAFF – NBC, 7/7/09]

 

$884,478 in Recovery Act funds awarded to Barbour County region for low-income family weatherization.  “The Alabama Weatherization Assistance Program gives priority consideration to the elderly, those with disabilities and to low-income residents with children.  Houses that qualify are modified to improve both energy efficiency and safety.” [Eufaula Tribune, 7/4/09] 

 

$900,000 Recovery Act grant will be spent on aiding transition to digital records for central North Alabama Health Services.  “Central North has already gotten some good news from the federal government.  It's in the form of a nearly $900,000 grant to transfer health records from paper to an electronic system.  ‘It will improve the safety of the patients, it will make us more efficient, it will improve the quality of the healthcare and provide access to more residents because of the efficiency,’ Powell said.” [WAFF – NBC, 6/30/09]

 

Cedar Bluff town council voted to apply for Recovery Act-funded grant to hire contractors for much-needed street paving.  “During this week’s meeting of the Cedar Bluff Town Council, a lengthy discussion took place, on the passing of a resolution making an application to the Alabama Department of Economic & Community Affairs for Community Block Grant Funding – with the funding being used to help pave Sewell Ferry Road, Hidden Cove Road, Cornwell Drive, Forrest Street, Cathy Street, Summer Place, Lake Place Road, Lake Place Street, and Lake Place Lane.  The monies for the project would come from stimulus funds, made available through the Community Block Grant.” [WEIS News Radio, 6/11/09]

 

Pike County governments jointly applied for Recovery Act-funded energy loan for local companies. “As part of the federal stimulus package, municipalities within the state of Alabama will have a shot at competing for portions of $6 million through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs… Troy, Banks and Goshen City Councils, along with the Pike County Commission will join forces in hopes of receiving $1 million to support a revolving energy loan.” [Troy Messenger, 6/11/09]

 

Tuscaloosa, Marion, and Aliceville Airports will hire contractors to improve runways with $12.2 million in federal economic Recovery Act money.  Using the Recovery Act money for airport projects will keep smaller construction contractors in business and their workers employed. Some might go out of business without the work, leaving less competition in the future. [Tuscaloosa News, 6/9/09]

 

Bus industry forecasts stabilizing thanks to Recovery Act-related orders; bus industry retaining jobs.  VP of North American Bus Industries of Anniston:  “It helps preserve the jobs that we have.  We don't have plans for any massive hiring. Right now we're just trying to maintain stability.’” [Fox Channel 5 News, 6/7/09]

 

Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority will spend Recovery Act dollars to upgrade buses. [WBRC-TV, 6/1/09]

 

Hartselle, Alabama will use Recovery Act funds to repave Sparkman Street. [The Decatur Daily, 5/27/09]

 

Morgan County will use Recovery Act funds for buses, equipment for bus maintenance shop, building sidewalks. [The Decatur Daily, 5/27/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will provide jobs for 341 young people in four Alabama counties.  “The jobs pay $7.25 an hour for a maximum of 35 hours a week. Workers can get in 210 hours during the six-week program.  If Macon County fills its 89 slots, $21,738.25 will be paid to those who qualify and work the maximum hours.  Designed to provide a meaningful work experience, the program calls for jobs to be distributed among the four municipalities in Macon County--Tuskegee, Shorter, Notasulga and Franklin.” [The Tuskegee News, 5/21/09]

 

Talladega received $400,000 in grants to inventory up to 46 abandoned industrial properties and conduct environmental site assessments. [Daily Home (Talladega, Pell City, Sylacauga), 5/12/09]

 

Recovery Act will supplement budget, Alabama will avoid laying off teachers, keep reading program.  “Without federal stimulus money, the $6.2 billion budget would have been markedly smaller than this year's budget. But it should prevent teacher layoffs, which is one of two critical reasons this flawed-but-necessary budget should be cheered rather than jeered.” [Anniston Star, 5/9/09]

 

The national park service announced that Denali National Park will receive $13 million in Recovery Act grants for water treatment, emergency services, and utility upgrades focused on improving the experience and safety of park visitors.  “The wastewater treatment lagoon at Denali National Park and Preserve will be replaced with a wastewater treatment plant as a result of funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act passed by Congress last year.  The $5.35 million project was part of $13 million in construction contracts awarded by the National Park Service.  The three largest projects are for improvements in the front country of Denali National Park and Preserve.  The park’s wastewater treatment lagoon will be replaced and its collection system will be rehabilitated with a new 100,000 gallon-per-day wastewater treatment plant. The park also will be getting a new emergency services and law enforcement facility to replace the dispatch office.  The building will provide heated, secure parking for multiple emergency vehicles and work space for ranger staff as well as house the park and regional communications center. A third project in Denali is for the rehabilitation and replacement of a major utility system in the employee housing area. Three large underground storage tanks will be removed and replaced with above-ground tanks. Electrical transformers will be replaced with new, high-efficiency models and waterlines and waste water collection lines will be replaced.” [Fairbanks Daily News, 6/3/10]

 

The Tlingit-Haida Central Council will receive Recovery Act funds to provide 25 paid apprenticeships to individuals eager to work in home weatherization and energy efficiency.  “The U.S. Department of Energy announced Friday that the Tlingit and Haida Central Council will receive more than $960,000 in funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to expand Alaska's weatherization training programs and establish a new weatherization training center in Juneau.   The award is one of 34 projects in 27 states selected to receive $29 million in stimulus funding.  The funds will be used to expand weatherization services for low-income households in Southeast Alaska by providing weatherization-related job training, according to the Department of Energy.  The program hopes to create 25 paid, on-the-job apprenticeships, employ trained personnel to address low-income housing units in need of weatherization, and support a training center and test home.  The training center will help prepare workers, supervisors and inspectors to work in the growing field of energy efficiency retrofits, using a combination of classroom, online and hands-on learning tools.  Under the Recovery Act, the Obama administration invested $5 billion to ramp up the pace of weatherization.  The Weatherization Assistance Program enables low-income families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making homes more energy efficient.” [Juneau Empire, 6/6/10]

  

Senator Begich announced Recovery Act summer work funding for Alaska’s youth, which will create “hundreds of job opportunities,” over the course of the summer.  “More than $1 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will provide for hundreds of job opportunities for Alaska's youth this summer, Sen. Mark Begich, D-Alaska, announced last week in Anchorage.  ‘There are many wonderful opportunities for young people across this state to get a job, many outdoors, and learn more about Alaska as well as important job skills,’ Begich said, during a news conference at the Bureau of Land Management's Campbell Creek Science Center.  ‘As we continue to build and strengthen our economy, we must remember employment and job training for young people is an import part of the equation.’  At the National Park Service, youth internship programs for ages 15-25 will be available, as well as youth partnership programs for employment and educational opportunities for minority and disadvantaged youth…” [The Cordoba Times, 6/9/10]

 

The Recovery Act funded construction of a new cabin at Eight Fathom Bight that replaces an existing thirty-year-old structure.  “Residents and visitors of Hoonah can now reserve the newly constructed Forest Service cabin at Eight Fathom Bight.  This cabin, funded with stimulus dollars from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, provided much needed jobs to the local community.  ‘This contract came at a critical time,’ said Wes Tyler, owner of Icy Straits Lumber and Milling, a subcontractor for the project.  ‘[Staffing] got very thin just before. We were having to lay people off, so this was a real big boost.’  Icy Straits Lumber and Milling constructed the 16-by-20-foot cabin from yellow cedar and spruce harvested and processed in the Hoonah area.  The cabin is complete with a stove, table, benches, bunks and a full loft.  This cabin replaces a thirty-year-old cabin inherited by the Forest Service, which was difficult to access and made even more so by a wind storm that knocked trees down around the cabin… Once completed, the structure was transported by barge to its permanent location at Eight Fathom Bight, which is easily accessible by boat or plane.” [Capital City Weekly, 5/5/10]

  

Kodiak Island Borough School Board will purchase new technology and upgrade computer systems with Recovery Act funding.  “The Kodiak Island Borough School Board (KIBSD) approved a purchase Monday afternoon that will standardize technology equipment for instructional spaces, certificated teachers and administrators district wide.  The $1,260,570.29 purchase gives the district 279 13’ MacBook Pros; 272 13’ MacBooks; 622 iPads; 88 MacMinis; nine Apple servers; six Mac Pro Desktops; extended warranties for all; five computer lab carts, project management and network design support and professional development for faculty and staff.  Relieving teachers of old equipment is important so the district could make the transition to Windows 7… Aside from providing the necessary equipment to upgrade to Windows 7, the purchase also provides the tools needed to make Pinnacle — an online grade book and teaching tool — become a reality come August.  The iPad will serve as teachers’ assessment tool, and be a quick and easy way for teachers to access Pinnacle… Initially the computers will be used in schools, and then kids may be able to check them out to take home.  The ratio of iPads will be one to two for kindergarten through eighth-grade, and a MacBook will be split for the elementary students to share at the rural sites.” [Kodiak Daily Mirror, 5/4/10]

  

Alaska’s struggling schools will receive Recovery Act funding to implement turnaround models as a part of the School Improvement Grants Program.  “Alaska will receive $10.7 million to turn around its persistently lowest achieving schools through the School Improvement Grants program, a news release said.  These funds are from money set aside in the 2009 budget and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act…  The $10,726,591 made available to Alaska is being distributed by formula to the state and will then be given out by the state to school districts…  When school districts apply, they must indicate that they will implement one of the following four models in their persistently lowest achieving schools.  Turnaround model: Replace the principal, screen existing school staff, and rehire no more than half the teachers; adopt a new governance structure; and improve the school through curriculum reform, professional development, extending learning time, and other strategies.  Restart model: Convert a school or close it and reopen it as a charter school or under an education management organization.  School closure: Close the school and send the students to higher-achieving schools in the district.  Transformation model: Replace the principal and improve the school through comprehensive curriculum reform, professional development, extending learning time, and other strategies.” [The Seward Phoenix, 4/28/10]

 

Talkeetna Sewer and Water system received $762,000 in Recovery Act funds to upgrade the system to meet EPA standards.  “The Talkeetna Sewer and Water system is the recipient of another grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  This latest grant comes through the US Department of Agriculture. The grant is about $762,000, part of which is a $48,000 loan.  The grant will help install the water treatment system this summer.  Earlier this year, stimulus money was received to install a system to put the sewer and water utility back into compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency.  The previous stimulus grants added up to over $1 million.  Those grants came with low cost loans totaling $105,000…  The project includes placing a unit at the wellhouse that will essentially remove the arsenic currently in the system.” [KTNA, 3/22/10]

 

Recovery Act will fund 90% of boat harbor construction project in Akutan, including dredging the breakwaters and entrance channel.  “The Army Corps of Engineers recently awarded a $31.9 million contract to build the new Akutan boat harbor...  The federal government is covering 90 percent of the costs, or $28.6 million, with money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  Steve Boardman, the chief of the Corps' civil project management branch in Alaska, said the funding of the harbor is unique.  ‘Normally berthing areas, the mooring areas, those costs are borne by the local sponsor.  In this particular case, the dredging of Akutan, the breakwaters, the entrance channel, all of those are considered general navigation features,’ which means the federal government will fund them.  Congress decided to fund the project in that way gave it funding priority because Akutan does not have any protected waters for boats to moor.  They can only anchor for a short time to offload their fish…  The Corps anticipates completing the harbor by September of 2012.  It is up to the city of Akutan and Aleutians East Borough to build the inner harbor, including any floats, slips or docks.” [KUCB News, 3/9/10]

 

Alaskans have received more per capita benefit from the Recovery Act than any other state.  Alaskans have gotten more of the federal stimulus dollars – per person – than any other state.  This month marked one year since President Obama signed the stimulus law, or American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, but Alaska will reap the bulk of benefits in the year ahead. [APRN, 2/25/10]

 

Recovery Act enables Kenai Community Library to double its space and upgrade technology, the first expansion in over 20 years.  “After years of planning, lobbying and fundraising, the library is finally getting its wish granted when the city of Kenai goes out for construction bids next week… The expansion will basically double the size of the 10,000-square-foot building, said Mary Jo Joiner, the library's director…  The last library expansion was in 1986, according to Donna Peterson, retired borough school district superintendent and a Friend of the Kenai Community Library member.… ‘There's been a lot of growth on the Peninsula since then,’ Peterson said…  At a city council meeting earlier this month, the council approved the authorization for the $2 million in bonds, which the bond bank approved to move forward and sell.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will save Kenai some money on the sale of the bonds... The stimulus funds will make the cost of the debt cheaper for the city by paying some interest on the bonds.  The expansion plans outline and anticipate the community's needs for the next 20 years, with more room for technology and to house its large collection of materials.” [Peninsula Clarion, 2/24/10]

 

$3.64 million in Recovery Act funds enables Juneau port to finish planned upgrades to loading facility.  “Juneau has received $3.64 million in federal money that will allow Docks and Harbors to finish its original plans for the Auke Bay loading facility.  The money was awarded through the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery Grant Program (TIGER program), with money provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, or stimulus act.  Docks and Harbors Port Director John Stone said the basic aspects of the facility were completed in its initial $11.2 million phase, but they didn't have all the money to do ‘all the finishing touches’ on the project.  That includes: ½ an acre of remaining fill, asphalt paving of traffic areas, additional power and light on uplands areas, a security gate and fencing, completing the barge and landing craft ramp with nine guide piles, a concrete approach and reinforced concrete planking on the loading ramp, a fresh water service line on the fisheries dock, a higher capacity, more heavy-duty crane, and miscellaneous work like planting and landscaping.  ‘The unfunded items affect the efficiency of operations, environmental impacts, safety, security and user diversity of the facility,’ said the application.  ‘Phase II will construct those unfunded items and complete the facility.’” [Juneau Empire, 2/19/10]

 

Alaska’s 46 Recovery Act-funded wastewater projects are ahead of their February 17th deadline.  “Close teamwork between the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation's Municipal Grants and Loans program and local communities has pumped around $40 million of federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds into Alaska's economy.  The stimulus funds went to 46 water and wastewater projects across the state and are now under contract ahead of the federal government's Feb. 17 deadline.  Alaska is the first state in EPA's Region 10 to have all its stimulus funds committed ahead of the deadline.  ‘Many communities are struggling to begin or complete critical projects, especially in these difficult economic times.  These stimulus funds are allowing communities to bolster infrastructure that ensures safe drinking water and proper sanitation for residents.  They are also helping to create jobs,’ said DEC Commissioner Larry Hartig.” [Juneau Empire, 2/8/10]

 

Recovery Act funds will go to the expansion of the Kenai Community Library.  “The Kenai City Council, at last night’s meeting, unanimously approved two resolutions connected to the expansion of the Kenai Community Library.  One approved resolution calls for the authorization of two-million dollars in bonds.  City Manager Rick Koch told the council that the bond bank had approved the city's application for that bond.  The bond bank would now move forward with the sale of that bond.  Meanwhile, the city will save money on with sale of these bonds because of a federal subsidy.  The subsidy qualifies the City of Kenai for this subsidy through the Stimulus Act.  It pays a large portion of the interest on the bonds.  The subsidy became available with the passage of the resolution last night that identifies Kenai as an economic recovery zone.” [KSRM, 2/4/10]

 

$1 million from Recovery Act funds University of Montana study of indoor air quality in Alaska and its effects on Native Alaskans’ respiratory problems.  “Now, with a federal stimulus grant totaling nearly $1 million, the program is expanding into the far north, where it will address respiratory health problems among Alaskan Natives.  ‘These are some pretty isolated and impoverished communities,’ lead scientist Tony Ward said.  ‘They're rural, remote and they don't always have access to environmental health resources.’  They are towns with wood stoves and dirt roads, towns where you burn your trash because there's no service to pick it up.  In addition, the project should create jobs for local health specialists, as well as training and employment for newcomers to the environmental health field.  The Alaskan students will be working with a $926,000 two-year grant, which Ward secured through the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.” [The Missoulian, 1/12/10]

 

A 90,000 square mile area in western Alaska will have 4g high-speed broadband internet service availability thanks to Recovery Act funding.  “An Alaska Village Corporation will a $25.3 million grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) broadband grant and loan programs, according to a written statement from Sen. Mark Begich.  Rivada Sea Lion, LLC, a village corporation of Hooper Bay, will leverage the money with $6.4 million of its own funds for its Southwestern Alaska Broadband Rural Expansion (SABRE) project.  The corporation will use the money, earned through a competitive grant process, for 4G high-speed broadband internet service availability to cover a 90,000 square mile area in Western Alaska.  They will serve an estimated 29,000 rural residents in 53 villages.  ‘Expanding and improving broadband in rural areas of Alaska is key to economic success and job creation,’ Sen. Begich said.  ‘I was pleased to support the SABRE project during the grant process, and this is another example of ways we are stabilizing the economy, improving technology, and advancing business through the Recovery Act in Alaska.’  Nationwide, Vice President Joe Biden today announced a total of $7.2 billion in Recovery Act broadband grant and loan programs… The awards are designed to help underserved and often hard-hit communities overcome the distance and technology barrier by expanding connectivity between educational institutions, enable remote medical consultations and attracting new businesses.” [Tundra Drums, 12/17/09]

 

Cook Inlet Tribal Council will use a $67,268 Recovery Act grant to provide 48 youths with green jobs skills.  The Green Capacity Building grant program is intended to build the green training capacity of current Department of Labor grantees.  Through these grants, the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) will help individuals acquire the skills needed to enter and advance in green industries and occupations by building the capacity of active DOLfunded training programs… Grantee: Cook Inlet Tribal Council, Inc…  Amount: $67,268.  Key Partnerships:  Cook Inlet Housing Authority and Alaska Works Partnership Project.  Description:  The applicant will enhance its YouthBuild program by providing 48 primarily Alaska Native or American Indian youth (16 to 24 years old)  who have not graduated high school or obtained a GED with additional energy efficient building, construction, and retrofit industry training with a focus on home weatherization.  The program will provide participants with 40 hours of weatherization specific training and 40 hours of hands on home weatherization skill development, in addition to the existing YouthBuild program.  Proposed Outcomes:  Proposed outcomes for the project include 48 participants completing enhanced weatherization training curriculum.  Expected performance outcomes include 75% of participants completing high school or obtaining a GED while in the program, 65% retaining employment for up to 3 months, 75% being placed in jobs or training opportunities, and 100% participating and completing workforce preparation.” [Department of Labor ETA Fact Sheet, 11/23/09]

 

Alaska’s State Employment Agency will use Recovery Act funds to help people find green jobs.  “Pacific Northwest states are getting more than $1.1 million from the U.S. Department of Labor to encourage green jobs.  The stimulus grants are to improve training for jobs that reduce energy use, benefit the environment and help state employment departments improve information gathering.  In job training money, Alaska's Cook Inlet Tribal Council will receive more than $67,000.  Alaska's state employment agency will get $800,000, while Oregon will receive $1.25 million and Washington $1.06 million.” [Associated Press, 11/20/09]

 

Alaska will use Recovery Act-funded grant to retrofit buildings with energy efficient technology, reduce heating costs, and improve productivity at power plants.  “Under DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program, these states… will implement programs that lower energy use, reduce carbon pollution, and create green jobs locally… ALASKA - $9,593,500 awarded.  Alaska will use its Recovery Act EECBG funding to implement energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in local communities across the state, including energy audits and building retrofits, transportation efficiency programs, and installations of renewable energy technologies on government buildings. … Promoting efficiency in local communities is particularly important in Alaska, which faces very high electricity and heating costs, and has more than 180 villages that are only accessible by water or air and have to operate independent, stand alone electric grids.   Overall, these Recovery Act-funded projects will lead to substantial energy and cost savings, and create or save more than 75 green jobs statewide.” [Department of Energy Release, 11/3/09]

 

Recovery Act will help create jobs and fund over 30 projects at Fairbanks schools.  “The Fairbanks North Star Borough School Board plans to formally accept $10 million in federal stimulus money Tuesday, a move that will add more than a dozen new jobs while helping the district start programs aimed at helping students prepare for college and careers… Many of the projects, district officials said, are designated for short-term expenditures that will have long-term benefits, such as buying materials, improving technology and teacher training.  ‘The programs are far reaching in a lot of different areas in our district,’ said Leslie Hajdukovic, the board president.  ‘It's allowing us to make purchases the district has needed that we've never had the money for and also allows to keep programs we otherwise wouldn't be able to afford.’  In the next three years, the district will work with $15 million in stimulus grants to fund more than 30 projects, such as $2 million for district-wide technology and a $1.3 million program to pay for mentors to improve graduation rates.” [Associated Press, 10/20/09]

 

Emmonak to use Recovery Act funding for new landfill, one of several projects expected to create or sustain jobs.  “The village of Emmonak will receive a $3.2 million loan and a $1.4 million grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… to construct a new landfill… ‘Hopefully, it will be a bigger place and we’ll have equipment to keep the trash in the area,’ said longtime resident Nick Tucker Sr. ‘Also, a nice road.  ‘It would make the village a healthier one environmentally.’  Emmonak’s funds are part of $172.5 million in funding for water and environmental projects that the United States Department of Agriculture allocated.  In total, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is expected to bring more than $1 billion to Alaska over the next two years, creating or sustaining some 8,000 jobs.”  Senator Begich:  “After being signed 200 days ago, the Recovery Act is continuing to help improve communities across Alaska.  These funds are welcome as they will help improve safety and sanitation in the community and create needed jobs.” [The Tundra Drums, 9/10/09]

 

Recovery Act will fund arts and culture organizations in Alaska. “The Alaska State Council on the Arts, at a recent meeting in Fairbanks, awarded $250,000 in grants to arts and culture organizations in Alaska under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The funds are through the National Endowment for the Arts.  The Juneau organizations receiving funds are the Juneau Arts and Humanities Council ($21,000), CrossSound ($8,000) and the Juneau Symphony ($8,800). Perseverance Theater received a stimulus fund grant for $21,000 directly from the Western States Arts Federation.  In Sitka, organizations receiving funds are the Sitka Summer Music Festival ($15,200) and Alaska Arts Southeast ($21,000).  [Capital City Weekly, 9/9/09]

 

Thanks to Recovery Act grant, Alutiiq Heritage Foundation can retain part-time educator that might have been eliminated.  “The Alutiiq Heritage Foundation has received a $16,000 grant from the Alaska State Council on the Arts (ASCA).  The Alaska council received from the funds through the National Endowment for the Arts, which has awarded some $250,000 in grants statewide under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 federal economic stimulus package.  The funds will be used for a part-time education coordinator position.  The person occupying the position works with educational programs between the Alutiiq Museum and Kodiak Island Borough School District, and will provide other borough-wide educational activities such as workshops.  The coordinator also makes occasional visits to various Kodiak Archipelago villages.  The grant required the money to be used to fund a position that would potentially be.” [Kodiak Daily Mirror, 9/1/09] 

 

Recovery Act will pay for loggers to thin secondary growth from Tongass National Forest, which will improve health of the forest, provide deer with nutrition.  “A very expensive tree-thinning project in the Tongass National Forest is receiving more than a half-million dollars in federal stimulus money…  The thinning will ‘increase the space, sunlight, water and nutrients available for the remaining trees, allowing them to thrive and grow, providing habitat for deer,’ the entry says.  Cole said the project's primary objectives of forest rehabilitation and improved deer habitat are important, but the project has a secondary benefit of helping forest managers learn more about what to do with 450,000 acres of second-growth trees in the Tongass… Dustin Solberg, spokesman for The Nature Conservancy in Alaska, said investing now in such projects will pay dividends later on in the form of jobs as it helps the Forest Service make the transition from old-growth logging to second-growth, he said.  ‘That is our future,’ Goularte said of second-growth timber.” [Juneau Empire, 8/30/09] 

 

NOAA hired contractors with Recovery Act funds to update nautical charts, improve safety for ships, prevent accidents.  “The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is using $5.3 million of new federal stimulus funds to survey and chart Unimak Pass and other Alaskan waters.  Unimak Pass has not been surveyed since the early 1900s.  The new information will be used to update nautical charts in the high-traffic area.  About 3,000 ships go through the pass each year, many while traveling on the Great Circle Route.  Ben Evans of the NOAA Office of Coast Survey says the mapping project improves the safety of the region.  ‘If we have up-to-date surveys, that means we have up-to-date nautical charts which means that these container ships and other commercial vessels, as well as fishing vessels and even recreational users, can navigate with greater confidence,’ Evans said.  ‘It certainly prevents environmental accidents and also allows for more efficient and faster transportation of goods and services between the United States and our trading partners all over the world.’  NOAA crews and hired contractors began surveying Unimak Pass and other critical areas around Alaska earlier this summer… According to the Department of Commerce, ocean transportation contributes $742 billion to the national economy per year countrywide.  The Recovery Act money will fund surveys for 674 square nautical miles off the coast of Alaska and nearly 2,000 total nation-wide.” [KUCB Public Broadcasting, 8/24/09]  

 

Unalaska will use Recovery Act to develop geothermal power plant.  “Alaska's federal legislators also recently announced other grant funding for the region.  The City of Unalaska will receive an additional 951 thousand 500 dollars for the geothermal project.  The money is to be used to find accessible commercial grade geothermal resources on Makushin and use it to develop a 10 to 12 megawatt geothermal power plant.” [KUCB Public Broadcasting, 8/24/09] 

 

Fairbanks International Airport will use Recovery Act funds for runway improvements.  “Fairbanks International Airport has received $3.5 million in federal stimulus funds for safety improvements on its general aviation runway.  The runway, which caters to smaller planes on the east side of the airport, will have new gates, signs and information kiosks installed.  Ryan Anderson, the project manager for the Alaska Department of Transportation, said the area has had problems in the past with motorists who have accidentally driven onto the runway or other restricted areas.  Anderson said the project will be completed by the end of the summer in 2010.” [The News Miner, 8/16/09] 

 

Senator Begich announced 26 impending Recovery Act-funded capital improvement grants to community health centers in Alaska.  “Visitors to the Bethel Family Clinic should soon notice energy-efficient improvements to the building and a new, nearby parking lot thanks to recently-announced funding in the American Recovery Reinvestment Act, aka the federal stimulus package.  The Bethel Family Clinic and the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corp. were two of the 26 Alaska health facilities set to receive capital improvement stimulus grants announced by U.S. Sen. Mark Begich on June 29.” [Tundra Drums, 7/9/09]

 

Alaska will use Recovery Act funds to pay workers to clear marine debris and restore salmon habitats in Cordova and Moose Pass.  Commerce Secretary Gary Locke: “These Recovery Act projects will put Americans to work while restoring our coasts and combating climate change.  They reflect our investment in sound science and commitment to help strengthen local economies.”  “Coastal areas generate more than 28 million jobs in the United States.  Commercial and recreational fishing employs 1.5 million people and contributes $111 billion to the nation's economy... The projects will employ Americans with a range of skills including laborers, nursery workers, design engineers, restoration ecologists, landscape architects, hydrologists, and specialized botanists. In addition to direct jobs, the projects are estimated to create indirect jobs in industries that supply materials and administrative, clerical, and managerial services.” [NOAA, 6/30/09]

 

Merrill Field received $1.86 million in Recovery Act funding for airport improvement projects.  Projects include reconstruction of aprons to accommodate 100 aircraft; the construction contract is expected to employ approximately twenty engineering and construction professionals. [KTVA CBS 11, 6/10/09]

 

Preventive measures against forest fires in Alaska to be enacted with $1.4 million in Recovery Act funds given to Alaska Division of Forestry.  Two crews will be hired to manually and mechanically cut and burn about 250 acres of mostly black spruce near Washington Creek along the Elliott Highway, about 30 miles north of Fairbanks, in the next two weeks. [Fairbanks News Miner, 6/8/09]

 

Housing Secretary says the government will offer more than $250 million in housing grants to American Indians and Alaska Natives as part of the Recovery Act package.  The competitive grants can be used to purchase land, build new homes and retrofit existing homes to make them more energy efficient… Donovan said the money could reduce crowding on reservations and improve living conditions.” [Associated Press, 6/2/09]

 

Alaska will receive an estimated $1.3-$1.5 billion in Recovery Act funding.  The majority of which is coming from the Interior Department for reclaiming mines, monitoring volcanoes, and rehabilitating trails within national parks. [Anchorage Daily News, 5/26/09]

 

Rural Alaska Community Action program is helping communities use Recovery Act funds to make buildings energy-efficient.  Initial projects focus on eight different rural communities and do about 150 houses small scale efficiency work and possible works with community buildings to make more efficient. [KTVSA News Channel 11, 5/19/09]

 

Recovery Act health facility construction funds will be used to complete the construction of the new Norton Sound Regional Hospital in Nome, Alaska.  The new facility will replace a 61-year-old hospital that is stretched to serve an estimated 10,000 users, create a substantial number of new jobs in construction, transportation and other professions, and help fight unemployment in Nome. [Indian Country Today, 5/18/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will enable the Chena Flood Control Project to replace faulty drainage pipes. [Associated Press, 5/10/09]

 

Vice President Biden visited the Grand Canyon to highlight the impact that the Recovery Act is having on the National Park System by upgrading facilities, trails and by keeping employees on the job.  “Vice President Joe Biden… stood at Hopi Point, on the west end of the South Rim that overlooks a 5,000-foot drop to the Colorado River, as he outlined stimulus-funded projects that include rehabilitating historic trails and structures.  Some $750 million in stimulus money has gone to about 800 national park projects that helped create jobs in tough times, he said… ‘Today, through the Recovery Act, we're polishing these national jewels,’ he said.   Biden began a two-day tour of national parks Monday at Yellowstone to highlight Recovery Act projects.  He spoke to about 60 Grand Canyon employees and local officials a day later.  Grand Canyon National Park has received about $18 million in stimulus funds for 15 projects.  Biden highlighted a project that will upgrade housing for members of an Arizona tribe who historically moved from below the canyon to the rim in a seasonal living pattern… More than $1 million in stimulus money is allocated for construction, repair and rehabilitation of housing there.  Those who live at Supai Camp share community laundry and restroom facilities.  The stimulus funding has allowed for each of the five cabins to be fitted with plumbing and kitchens and three new duplexes to be built.” [Associated Press, 7/27/10]

 

Governor Brewer announced that Arizona is receiving Recovery Act grants to supplement border security.  “Arizona law enforcement agencies will share in $10 million in grants for border security work, Gov. Jan Brewer announced Monday.  The grants, funded by federal stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, ‘were allocated to supplement law enforcement's ability to address illegal drug trafficking, human smuggling and illegal immigration,’ the governor's office said in a news release… The National Guard will station 524 soldiers in the state, along with nearly 700 more along the rest of the U.S.-Mexico border, beginning Aug. 1. 300 more Customs and Border Protection agents will be sent to the Tucson Sector, along with 100 additional Immigrations and Customs Enforcement personnel being deployed to the state.   Pima County will receive $1.1 million from the state program, while the Tohono O'odham Nation will get $815,000.   Allowable expenses include overtime pay, training costs, vehicles and communications equipment.” [Tucson Sentinel, 7/19/10]

 

Construction Has Finished On A New Recovery Act Stimulus-Funded Park-N-Ride Outside Of Phoenix That Will Decrease Road Congestion And Carbon Emissions.  “Federal stimulus dollars were at work this morning in Ahwatukee.  That’s where the expansion of the busy park-n-ride at 40th St. and Pecos Road was completed. Commuters from Ahwatukee often had to park on residential streets in the area because the Valley Metro park-n-ride there was too small.  But the expansion, which began in January 2010, adds 350 parking spaces to the most heavily used park-n-ride in Phoenix. It cost nearly $3 million and was solely funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The Kroll Contactors Inc. oversaw the expansion.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 6/29/10]

 

Phoenix Received Recovery Act Stimulus Funding For Citywide Transportation Upgrades, Reducing Congestion And Improving Public Safety.  “The city of Phoenix received $35.5 million in federal funds for citywide transportation projects.  The money came through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and construction on hundreds of projects throughout the city will take place this summer.  ‘These federal dollars are creating local jobs and improving the safety and efficiency of Phoenix streets,’ said Wylie Bearup, director of the city’s Street Transportation Department. … ARRA transportation projects include: modifications to reduce congestion at the Seventh Street and McDowell Road intersection; the application of rubberized asphalt at various locations to reduce noise and offer a smoother ride; sign upgrades; bridge rehabilitation; and upgrades to meet requirements of the American’s With Disabilities Act, among others.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 6/18/10]

 

Nonprofits Across The State Benefit From Recovery Act Stimulus Funds By Investing In Renewable Energy Projects.  “Fourteen Arizona nonprofits were awarded stimulus act grants of about $50,000 each for renewable energy projects, the state announced Monday.  The funding is part of $55.4 million that the state Energy Office got from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The projects are getting a total of $637,328 for the projects, which should help cut the amount of money they spend on electricity and provide employment opportunities, which was the goal of the stimulus.  The projects include $50,000 for solar water heating and electricity systems for the Central Arizona Shelter Services Vista Colina Emergency Family Shelter in Sunnyslope, saving the facility about $5,000 a year in energy costs, according to the Energy Office.  The group known as Building Opportunity Through Housing and Neighborhood Development Services in Flagstaff will use its $32,693 grant install solar water heating, saving $1,600 a year.” [The Arizona Republic, 5/24/10]

  

Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport Will Receive Recovery Act Stimulus Funds To Enhance Baggage-Screening Security Measures.  “Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport will get $26.6 million in federal stimulus money to improve baggage safety measures.  Phoenix was one of several airports sharing $78 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for airport security technology projects, according to an announcement Wednesday by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano.  The money will help Phoenix install two inline baggage screening systems.  The technology will help monitor checked baggage for explosives and it will help streamline the ticketing and boarding process for travelers, homeland security officials say.   The systems will also help reduce the number of re-scans and physical bag searches, according to the department. ‘These state-of-the-art technologies will strengthen security for travelers by enhancing our capability to detect and disrupt threats of terrorism,’ Napolitano said. ‘Infusing these vital Recovery Act funds into critical airport security technology projects will create local jobs, streamline the passenger check-in process and bolster security at airports across the nation.’” [AZCentral.com, 6/2/10]

 

A Recovery Act Stimulus Funded Department Of The Interior Grant Will Go To Improve Desalting Capabilities In Yuma County’s Irrigation System.  “The Bureau of Reclamation, an agency of the Department of the Interior, has awarded an $869,664 contract to Au’Authum Ki, Inc., a small business from Chandler, Ariz., under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  Under this award, Au’Authum Ki will demolish approximately 230 feet of existing canal including radial gate sections and vertical walled channel on the Yuma Desalting Plant’s Main Outlet Drain Extension, which carries agricultural drainage water to the desalting plant and past it to the plant’s bypass drain in Mexico…   The work is being conducted about 2 miles south of the Desalting Plant, near Yuma County 8th Street and Levee Road, in Yuma County, Ariz. ‘These upgrades will enhance the Yuma Desalting Plant’s ability to improve water quality, while also returning flows to the Colorado River for water deliveries to Mexico,’ said Reclamation Commissioner Michael Connor.  ‘Water conservation improvement projects such as these are critical to improving the Colorado River Basin’s drought situation.’ ….  ‘Over the next year with the plant operating at up to one-third capacity, we will produce a total of 21,700 acre-feet of desalted water,’ Connor said. The pilot run will allow savings of about 30,000 acre-feet of water in Lake Mead that otherwise would have been released as part of required deliveries to Mexico.” [Imperial Valley News, 6/7/10]

  

The Recovery Act Is Providing A Grant To Mesa For Replacement Of Streetlights With More Efficient LED Technology.  “Mesa will use a $1 million federal grant to replace more than 2,500 streetlights with more efficient LED lights.  The lights will cut energy use 40 percent, saving $28,000 a year in electricity.   …The funding came from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.” [The Mesa Tribune, 6/8/10]

  

Surprise, Arizona Receives Recovery Act Funds To Instill A Solar Photovoltaic System In Its City Hall, Decreasing Annual Energy Cost And Curbing City Emissions.  “Some lights at City Hall will soon be powered by sunlight. Surprise received a grant of about $812,000 through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to place photovoltaic solar panels on top of the covered parking structures at the city parking garage.  The power produced will offset some of the electricity City Hall uses.  The panels will cover approximately 3,600 square feet of covered parking stalls, said Terry Lowe, public works project manager.  Lowe said Surprise is ‘new to the solar game’ and enlisted the help of LSW Engineers to design the criteria of the system while accommodating different solar technologies.  The power generated will save taxpayers money…. The panes are part of the city's push toward sustainability.  …” [AZ Central, 6/10/10]

 

Recovery Act Grant helps Hire 50 People, Roll Out 12,000 Charging Stations; Ecotality’s Charger Research Expected To Create 750 Jobs By 2012.  “Those wanting a car they can plug in rather than fill up can reserve a Nissan Leaf all-electric car online Saturday, and Phoenix drivers have a chance to get a free home charger with the car.   A $99.8 million stimulus-act grant will help usher in the cars and chargers when they hit the street late this year, and it is giving a significant boost to a local company.   Tempe-based Ecotality Inc. received the grant last year to roll out about 12,000 charging stations for the first 4,700 Leaf vehicles and to research how people use the cars and chargers.  ‘This company is a great example of the stimulus act doing what it was supposed to do,’ Ecotality spokeswoman Jeanine L'Ecuyer said.  ‘ETEC was teetering. It was a company trying very hard to stay in business.  This grant has created jobs and put this company back on track.’   ETEC had 23 employees before the grant.  It already has hired 50 people to coordinate the rollout and find contractors who will install the chargers.  The company will offer free home chargers with the Leaf to buyers who agree to share their driving information for Recovery Act research… The EV Project will create about 750 direct jobs by 2012 and 5,500 by 2017...”   [The Arizona Republic, 5/14/10]

 

Yuma County increased staff capacity and funded a summer youth employment program with $2.2 million from the Recovery Act.  “Yuma County was awarded $4.5 million for activities authorized under the Workforce Investment Act, which is being administered by the Yuma Private Industry Council.  To date, YPIC has spent 83 percent of the $4.5 million, mostly for the dislocated workers and summer youth programs. … Due to the high unemployment rate in Yuma County, YPIC has seen an increase in its client base.  In February 2010, YPIC’s One-Stop served 1,824 clients, compared with 988 in February 2009.  To serve the increased numbers of clients seeking assistance, YPIC had to increase staff capacity.  In the last year, YPIC has hired approximately 25 new staff with ARRA funding, the majority of them dislocated workers.  The Summer Youth Program received $2.2 million in stimulus money, and Congress asked that the majority of those funds be spent in the summer of 2009.  YPIC spent 95 percent of the funds last summer, serving 864 youths…. YPIC was also awarded an ARRA System Building Funds grant that was used to host a Workforce and Economic Development Summit.  The summit’s multiple sessions concentrated on defining initiatives that will respond to opportunities and challenges in order to prepare Yuma for an economic recovery as it emerges.”  [Yuma Sun, 5/2/10]

  

Department of Energy uses Recovery Act funds to accelerate Sion Power Corp’s production of lithium-sulfur batteries for use in electric cars.  “Tucson-based Sion Power Corp. has been awarded a $5 million federal grant to further develop its lithium-sulfur battery technology for use in electric cars.  The award, part of $106 million in grants nationwide announced Thursday by the U.S. Department of Energy, will fund efforts to develop an ultra-high-energy battery that can power electric vehicles for more than 300 miles between charges.  The grant is part of the DOE's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy program, funded with federal stimulus money under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… Sion's approach uses new manufacturing processes and barrier layers within the batteries to improve cycle life - the number of times a battery can be recharged - as well as safety.  Sion CEO Dennis Mangino said the three-year grant, which will be matched by the company, will help Sion develop prototype car batteries by 2014… The company expects to be able to achieve a cycle life of 500 charge cycles, he said.  That compares with a goal of 1,000 cycles sought by the U.S. Advanced Battery Consortium, a research group formed by Chrysler, Ford and General Motors.  But Sion's batteries promise twice the power capacity of other technologies, offsetting the lower cycle life, Mangino said.”  [Arizona Daily Star, 4/30/10]

 

Phoenix received Recovery Act funding to create 2,700 jobs by increasing the energy efficiency of buildings along the city’s ‘green rail corridor.’  “The U.S. Energy Department on Wednesday awarded the city a $25 million economic-stimulus grant to create jobs and make buildings greener along a 10-mile stretch of the light rail.  The federal grant will provide seed funding for Energize Phoenix, a long-term partnership with Arizona State University and Arizona Public Service Co. aimed at improving the energy efficiency of aging homes and businesses throughout the city.  The grant will leverage at least $190 million of funding from banks, private businesses and public partners.  The goal over the next six years is to eliminate carbon emissions by 50,000 metric tons per year by making 3,500 homes and 30 million square feet of office and industrial space more energy efficient.  Officials plan to do that by hiring up to 2,700 workers to install insulation and energy-efficient windows and lighting, replace old air-conditioning units and water heaters, and provide residents with APS ‘smart meters’ to help them learn about and reduce their energy consumption… The Phoenix grant will focus on an area designated as the ‘Green Rail Corridor,’ which runs along the light-rail line … near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.”  [The Arizona Republic, 4/22/10]

  

A Bureau of Land Management ‘ground-filling celebration’ will fill in abandoned mine shafts, a project paid for by the Recovery Act.  “The U.S. Bureau of Land Management is inviting the public to a ‘ground-filling’ celebration at the Swansea Townsite ghost town at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 22.  The event will mark the start of BLM's largest western Arizona stimulus project.  La Paz County and the state of Arizona are supporting it.  The BLM will fill in abandoned open mine shafts, adits and test pits at the Swansea Mine.  Money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will pay for the project.  Caymus Corp., based in Tempe, won the contract with a bid of $181,305.  If bats live in the shafts, the BLM will build bat-friendly closures.  The celebration also includes guided tours of the extensive ghost town and mine… The project consists of two bat friendly gates for adit closures, nine bat friendly cupolas for mine shaft closures and filling in nine old test pits/shafts to reduce public safety risks and protect sensitive wildlife habitat and cultural resources.”  [The Daily Courier, 4/20/10]

 

Recovery Act awards to the Small Business Administration have increased the number of loans made to small businesses in Arizona by 54%.  “U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lending in Arizona increased significantly in the second quarter of the federal government’s 2010 fiscal year ending March 31, 2010.  SBA loans increased to 577 during the quarter, up 54.3% over the FY2009 2nd quarter of 374 loans.  Dollar volume increased 29.3% during the period to $212 million. … The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) signed by President Obama on February 17, 2009, provided broad reaching assistance to small businesses, including an increase in the guarantee on all loans up to 90 percent from 75 to 85 percent and the elimination of guaranty fees, resulting in substantial savings for small business borrowers.  In Arizona, SBA has approved $520 million since the Act was implemented and seen over 1100 loans approved… Lending increased by 90% in dollars and 54% in the number of loans.  SBA 504 loans – designed to help small businesses purchase real estate or major capital assets – increased by 29% in volume. … A special 100-percent guaranteed, deferred-payment loan program up to $35,000 created under ARRA, known as American Recovery Capital (ARC), saved 107 small businesses and 1,331 jobs during the quarter.” [Tucson Citizen, 4/14/10]

 

The Arizona Appliance Rebate Program was hailed as a success after over 30,000 people signed up to purchase energy efficient appliances.  “Business figuratively hit the spin cycle for Terry Timmons on Monday.  Timmons, who works at the Quality Maytag Appliance Center store on Iron Springs Road, said the Arizona Appliance Rebate Program was a hit.  ‘It was a success, it did what they were intending,’ he said.  The Arizona Department of Commerce began accepting reservations for rebates on water heaters and clotheswashers and dishwashers at 6 a.m. as part of the $6.2 million appliance program.  Timmons said the program bolstered Monday business 50 percent to 75 percent… Money for the program comes from the $300 million federal government stimulus package available to states as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to bolster the economy and clean up the environment… Drennon said statewide 21,000 people got reservations for the clothes washer rebate, 4,480 people got the dishwasher rebate and 4,800 people took advantage of the water heater rebate.”  [Daily Courier, 4/12/10]

 

$32.2 million Recovery Act grant funds Navajo broadband infrastructure, to foster job creation, business development, and education for the tribe.  “The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority has been awarded a $32.2 million stimulus grant to help provide broadband infrastructure to the Navajo Nation.  The grant is being made by the U.S. Department of Commerce via the National Telecommunications & Information Administration’s Broadband Technology Opportunities Program.  ‘The Navajo Nation was identified as one of the areas in Arizona with the greatest need for broadband support,’ Chad Kirkpatrick, chief information officer of the state of Arizona, said in a prepared statement.  ‘This grant will deliver broadband Internet, which will foster jobs, business development and new educational opportunities.  This is a step forward in bringing the tools of economic prosperity to every corner of our state,’ said Gov. Jan Brewer.”  [Phoenix Business Journal, 3/26/10]

 

$4 million from the Recovery Act funds a Green Retrofit Program to increase energy efficiency and renovate Kivel Campus of Care facilities.  “With a $4 million grant of federal economic stimulus money, Kivel Campus of Care plans to modernize and increase the energy efficiency of 256 independent-living apartments within the next year.  The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as part of the Green Retrofit Program for Multifamily Housing under the American Recovery and Reimbursement Act of 2009, said Ira Shulman, Kivel president and CEO.  ‘This is a significant grant for any community,’ Shulman told Jewish News. Only 218 such grants have been awarded from among more than 20,000 potential applicants, he added.  More important, he said, is that the planned renovations to the Kivel Manor buildings, which are 30 to 40 years old, show Kivel's continued commitment to providing a Jewish senior living campus at its historic Phoenix location at 3020 N. 36th St., despite the closure of its skilled-nursing facility in April 2008… The grant program's goal is to retrofit older multifamily properties with energy-efficient appliances, materials and systems, with an eye toward reducing energy costs and water consumption, assuring indoor air quality and creating jobs for industries that produce the energy-efficient products.”  [Jewish News of Greater Phoenix, 4/1/10]

 

A $600,000 Recovery Act grant awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services will help elderly Arizonans with chronic diseases.  “A $600,000 federal grant will help elderly Arizonans with chronic diseases.  The grant to the Arizona Department of Health Services from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services uses funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  A release from Representative Raul Grijalva's office says Arizona will use its grant to create and support evidence-based programs for older adults with chronic diseases, and to build a statewide chronic disease service delivery system.  Grijalva's office says the effort will directly create health care jobs and inform older people with chronic diseases about how to improve their own health.”  [KOLD, 3/31/10]

 

$16 million from the Recovery Act will fight obesity with a community prevention program that will also create 155 jobs.   “The federal government is sending $16 million in stimulus funds to Pima County to combat obesity.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is giving the county the grant, titled Communities Putting Prevention to Work - Obesity, Nutrition & Physical Activity.  It was appropriated by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Several organizations worked together to get the grant, which will fund community programs aimed at increasing physical activity, improving nutrition and fighting obesity.  The grant is expected to last two years and create 155 jobs, according to a press release from the staff of Rep. Raúl Grijalva, D-Ariz., who said in the release that he supported the grant application.” [Arizona Daily Star, 3/13/10]

 

Recovery Act fundsYuma area water storage facility upgrades, including canal, roadway, pump, and well repair and replacement.  “The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's aging water storage, diversion and delivery facilities in the Yuma area have gotten a badly needed boost - $41.5 million worth - in federal stimulus funds.  That's the total for 14 projects in the area to be funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, said Maria Ramirez, assistant area manager for Reclamation.  That includes one project that has been completed, eight for which contracts have been awarded and five pending projects.  Reclamation has had water management facilities since the early 1900s to provide Colorado River water to farms and communities in the Yuma area and Imperial Valley, she said.  ‘Much of this infrastructure – canals, roadways, pumps, groundwater wells and water control structures – needs to be repaired or replaced,’ Ramirez said. ‘But restricted budgets have limited the work that has been done.  Recovery Act funding will allow this much needed work to be accomplished.’  … The projects also are creating local jobs, Ramirez said.” [Yuma Sun, 3/10/10]

 

Recovery Act will fund energy efficient upgrades to lighting, heating, and air conditioning appliances at Queen Creek Unified School District.  “Queen Creek Unified School District has received a federal stimulus grant to help it upgrade energy efficiency at its schools.  The district, which will receive $848,964 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, received help from ConEdison Solutions, a Valhalla, N.Y.-based group, in getting the grant.  The money will pay for upgrades to schools’ lighting, heating and air conditioning as well as looking for low-cost ways to make the buildings more energy efficient.  The grant will cover about 30 percent of the project cost.  The state has allocated about $13 million in energy efficiency grants through the School Facilities Board for districts around the state.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 3/10/10]

 

Recovery Act funding allows Phoenix to repave 41 miles of road and bring 468 street ramps into compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act.   “Phoenix has begun work on numerous street projects under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The projects will be done throughout the city, with almost 41 miles of rubberized asphalt resurfacing and 468 corners getting new ramps that are compliant with updates to the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The City Council on March 3 approved the projects, and work is to start in the spring.  The total cost for resurfacing is $21.5 million and for the ramps $3.5 million.  On the north side of the city, the resurfacing projects were awarded to M.R. Tanner Construction for $5.2 million, providing 58 jobs.  Spire Engineering was awarded the ramp projects for $981,000, providing 11 jobs.” [The Arizona Republic, 3/8/10]

 

All Arizona’s Recovery Act transportation funding has been allocated to 71 projects across the state in time for March 2nd deadline.  “ Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, Arizona received $522 million in federal funding.  ADOT administers the entire amount for both state and local government projects, and oversees the obligation process to ensure that all projects meet mandatory federal regulations.  The entire $522 million allocation has been successfully allocated prior to the March 2 federal deadline… ADOT received $350 million for a total of 71 state highway and bridge projects; 15 of these projects were added from the $117 million in cost savings produced through a competitive bidding process.  The agency’s shovel-ready projects were first approved for federal funding in March 2009 by the State Transportation Board.  Since then, ADOT has worked aggressively to get projects through the bidding process, ready for contract approval, and out to construction. Currently there are 57 Recovery Act projects under construction statewide; of those, 32 have already been completed.  Cities and towns received $156 million for 81 projects statewide.  Another $16 million was allocated for 26 transportation enhancement projects across Arizona.” [Tucson Citizen, 3/2/10]

 

Bureau of land management completes its first Recovery Act funded project.  “The first American Recovery and Reinvestment Act project for the Bureau of Land Management in western Arizona was completed last week.  The stimulus funds paid for repairs to the parking lot and boat launch at Rock House Visitors Center and Parker Strip Recreation Area, located 45 minutes south of Lake Havasu City.  ‘The facilities provide visitors with recreation and other information, scenic views overlooking the Colorado River, restrooms, and free boat launching,’ Lake Havasu Field Manager Ramone McCoy said… The Owner of Copp Contracting, Inc., Dennis Copp, estimated that more than 30 individuals, including five full-time employees, supported and worked on this project.” [Kingman Daily Miner, 2/22/10]

 

Tucson to build modern-streetcar line, a Recovery Act project expected to create 1,600 jobs and attract business.  “U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood scrawled his signature across the bottom of a $63 million federal stimulus check Thursday, bringing the crowd gathered at downtown's Historic Train Depot to its feet.  The money will go to build four miles of track for Tucson's modern-streetcar project, from the University Medical Center area through the University of Arizona and downtown to a site west of Interstate 10.  Tucson competed for the TIGER grant (for Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) in a field of 1,400 projects totaling $60 billion for a slice of a $1.5 billion pot.…  ‘The American Recovery and Revitalization Act is alive and well in the city of Tucson,’ Mayor Bob Walkup said as he introduced LaHood.  Feb. 17 marked the one-year anniversary of the act, of which TIGER grants are a part. Fifty-one projects nationwide received funding through the TIGER grants.  LaHood called the streetcar project ‘one of the best’ and said it would be a boon to the community.  ‘The streetcar is a great way for Tucson to attract business,’ he said. ‘If you build it, they will come.’  Project construction is expected to create 1,600 jobs, starting late this year.” [Arizona Daily Star, 2/19/10]

 

Arizona Teach for America received Recovery Act funds to recruit and train new teachers.  “Arizona governor Jan Brewer announced Thursday $2 million in stimulus funding will go to Teach for America.  The money comes from the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund (SFSF) Government Services Fund, granted through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. ‘I am pleased to announce the award of $2 million of my discretionary funds to Teach For America,’ said Governor Brewer.  ‘Teach For America is an organization that has helped recruit, train, and support thousands of teachers for schools in low income communities.  With continued advocacy and support, Teach For America will maintain its mission to end educational inequity and provide all children with the opportunity to attain an excellent education.’ Teach for America (TFA) will use the $2 million to expand its program.  That includes bringing in as many as 200 new corps members and increasing the number of students growing up in low-income communities from 20,000 to 25,000. In the past, TFA has also been able to gather private donations following declarations of state funding.” [KOLD, 2/12/10]

 

Despite economic hardships, VA hospital continues to operate without cuts to medical service thanks to funding from the Recovery Act.  “Services are increasing for military veterans at the Bob Stump Veterans Affairs Medical Center despite the nation's troubled economy, a spokeswoman for the complex said in late January.… The VA hospital here has tightened its budget, but it has received stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which President Obama signed into law this past year, for infrastructure upgrades on its grounds.  Callahan said, for example, that the complex is preparing to add a new 19-bed unit on the hospital's third floor sometime this spring or summer.  Wendy J. Hepker, associate director with the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System, said the Prescott VA hospital is currently staffed and funded for 85 beds in its Community Living Center, or CLC, which is designed for long-term care. However, the complex also has 25 acute medical beds (including six in intensive care) and 120 domiciliary beds for rehab, bringing the total number of beds to 230.  The medical center houses several different wings, including the domiciliary, geriatric extended care (for nursing home-type patients), hospice, dementia, outpatient and intensive care units.” [The Daily Courier, 2/11/10]

 

Recovery Act Funds will be used to replace deteriorated roadways in Yuma with recycled asphalt.  “A contract to replace badly deteriorated pavement and roadways at the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's complex in Yuma is being funded with more than a million dollars in stimulus money.  The $1.16 million contract was awarded by USBR to Safe and Secure Construction of Phoenix with funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009.  Under the contract, the contractor will replace about 65,000 square yards of pavement in parking areas and roadways at USBR’s Yuma Area Office complex west of Yuma.  The contract also includes paving along one mile of roadway that runs atop an existing levee near the office complex.  In addition, there will be new concrete near the maintenance shop on which to keep heavy equipment being worked on.  Work is expected to start in March and take about nine weeks, said Josh Scott, director of technical support services for USBR in Yuma.  It will be a ‘green’ project as the existing asphalt will be milled and recycled into new asphalt, he said.” [Yuma Sun, 2/11/10]

 

$400,000 from Recovery Act buys three new buses for page express bus service.  “The Express Bus Service in Page looks a little bit different this week, as three new buses were put on the city streets to transport people to and from work, home, errands, doctor appointments and more.  The Helping Hands Agency received $400,000 in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to get four new Chevy buses to replace a fleet of buses originally intended for its special-needs clientele.  The fourth bus is still in transit.  Helping Hands hired Wayne Shugart to be Express’ transportation director four months ago as part of the process to upgrade the fleet.  ‘We’re just trying to set up a whole new image for public transit, more professional,’ he said.” [Lake Powell Chronicle, 2/2/10]

 

City of Peoria awarded $1.3 million Recovery Act grant for LEED certification training, energy efficient lighting, public housing upgrades.  “The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Peoria $1.3 million in a stimulus grant to fund energy and conservation projects over three years… ‘This grant comes at a wonderful time,’ Deputy City Manager Susan Daluddung said in a statement.  ‘We can use these dollars not only to help save the environment, but also to help the city save money with ongoing expenses, such as energy costs. It benefits Peoria into the future.’  Proposed projects and estimated costs:  Energy efficient LED lighting for facilities: $557,000.  Energy efficient LED lighting for streets and city parks: $287, 000… Training for LEED certification of 17 employees for green associate credentials: $33,000.  Pilot wind turbine, wind energy project at the Lake Pleasant Fire Station No. 9: $52,000.  Upgrades and insulation at the public housing facility, Parkview Apartments: $17,000.” [Arizona Republic, 1/25/10]

 

$240,000 Recovery Act grant will go toward installing pedestrian lighting, repairing sidewalks.  “Residents in the historic Floralcroft neighborhood will notice some street construction in their neighborhood beginning next week.  The neighborhood will benefit from improvements paid for by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.  The grant of $240,000 will be used to install new pedestrian lighting and various sidewalk improvements throughout the neighborhood, which is west of 59th Avenue, north of Myrtle Avenue and along the south side of State Avenue.  This grant is a one-time allocation made possible by the city receiving stimulus dollars.  It is anticipated this project will generate between 20-25 jobs in the community and further revitalize the immediate area surrounding the Glendale centerline.” [Your West Valley, 1/23/10]

 

Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon praises Recovery Act and its benefits to the city.  “When America's financial institutions crumbled and housing values plummeted, cities and families across the nation felt the tremendous impact… To make matters worse, no road map to help us navigate these new and troubled waters was delivered to our doorstep.  It had to be created. … The debate of whether or not the stimulus has in fact "stimulated" our economy will continue for months, and possibly years to come. But the picture in Phoenix, Arizona, is clear: Because of ARRA, key projects are under way, our environment is improving -- and thousands of people are going back to work… At a time when our economy had slowed to a point where new infrastructure projects did not seem possible, the city was awarded $11.7 million from ARRA to reconstruct a taxiway at the airport. … When complete, it will be capable of moving large commercial aircraft between the north runway and the terminals at Sky Harbor.” [CNN, 1/25/10]

 

Creek Nation opens bidding for road repairs made possible with $5.3 million in Recovery Act funds.  “Driving on old U.S. 69 between Summit and Oktaha is like driving ‘on a road made up of speed bumps,’ said Jeanne Rorex Bridges of Oktaha.  She was delighted Wednesday when she heard the news that the Creek Nation has opened bids on $5.3 million in road projects in their area… B.C. Haney, a Creek Nation spokesman, said in an e-mail that the traffic count on the old highway is more than 1,000 vehicles per day between Summit and Oktaha… Funding for the project also will be provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (federal stimulus funds)… Paulette Logan, co-owner of Bootsie’s Restaurant at Summit, looks forward to the new highway and to the construction jobs it will bring at her business’s front door.  She hopes some of those construction workers will stop by for a hamburger.” [Muskogee Pheonix, 1/20/10]

 

Small business lending up 64 percent in Arizona thanks to Recovery Act. “U.S. Small Business Administration lending in Arizona increased significantly in the first quarter of the federal government’s 2010 fiscal year ending Dec. 31.  Compared to the first quarter of 2009, the total number of SBA loans increased 64 percent from 211 to 348 and the dollar volume of lending increased 38.3 percent from $83 million to $114 million… The agency said it reflects the impact economic stimulus efforts are having in the marketplace.  In Arizona, year-to-year data shows SBA lending contracted 52 percent in fiscal year 2009 from 2008 levels.  During that period, the number and value of loans dropped from 2,022 loans valued at $880 million to 962 loans valued at $309 million.  The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 signed by President Obama on Feb. 17, 2009, gave broad-reaching help to small businesses, including an increase in the guarantee on all loans up to 90 percent from 75 to 85 percent and the elimination of guarantee fees.” [Sierra Vista Herald, 1/18/10]

 

$30 million in Recovery Act Tax Breaks Create Solar Equipment Factories; Another $45 Million Helps Arizona companies build wind and solar equipment factories in other states.  “Six solar-power equipment factories proposed for metro Phoenix, which if built could create higher-paying manufacturing jobs, are earmarked to receive nearly $30 million in tax breaks announced by the White House.  An additional $45 million in tax breaks is being offered to five Arizona companies if they build or expand wind-turbine or solar-equipment factories in other states… The list reveals strong interest from international companies in establishing solar-manufacturing operations in Arizona. Companies from Europe, China, Japan and California are interested in building or expanding factories in the area.” [The Arizona Republic, 1/11/10]

 

Arizonans benefit from $4.8 million green jobs skills training funded by Recovery Act.  “Efforts to train Arizonans for jobs in emerging renewable-energy industries will get a boost from a $4.8 million federal job-training grant announced Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Labor… The grant also will fund ‘capacity-building’ efforts — consisting mainly of training for instructors — in Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico and Texas… An official of a local electrical apprenticeship program said the group will apply for the training to help take its solar-energy installation training program to the next level. ‘I think this is going to be huge for us,’ said Karen King, training director for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 570-National Electrical Contractors Association Apprenticeship and Training Committee.  King said the IBEW local already has an introductory program on photovoltaic technology, and the new training will help expand that and add training for journeymen electricians.” [Arizona Daily Star, 1/7/10]

 

Thanks to Recovery Act funds, students can work summer jobs at ASU lab studying cancer.  “In the current economic climate, it's a challenge for young people to find any sort of summer job, let alone a job that both expands their minds and helps society. But thanks to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), Arizona State University student Aida Mohammadreza and thousands of other science-minded students across the nation are hard at work in jobs that yield far more than a paycheck.  A sophomore majoring in biochemistry, Mohammadreza was thrilled to learn that she had secured an ARRA-supported summer research position at an ASU laboratory that uses genome-based tools to study throat cancer.  Besides helping to pay college bills, the Mohammadreza's job meshes well with her dream of a career in biomedicine and her desire to help people with cancer.  Mohammadreza's great-grandfather passed away from throat cancer, which sparked the inspiration and motivation for her interest in cancer research… She is able to continue her research there this summer because of an ARRA-funded administrative supplement that was awarded by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) to Deirdre Meldrum, the center's director and the dean of ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering… ‘If I didn't have this summer research position, I would definitely look for another opportunity in genome research,’ Mohammadreza said. ‘The ARRA funding will allow me to turn my ideas and dreams into a reality.’” [Arizona State University, 1/4/10]

 

After six month dry spell, C&E Pavement Maintenance won stimulus-funded contract to fix potholes.  “As the snow and ice recede, city crews are starting to focus their attention on another of Old Man Winter's obstacles: potholes.  The winter weather marks a change in how the city handles its potholes: Crews are locked in an endless cycle of putting in temporary patches on the same potholes that scar some Flagstaff streets.  The good news right now is that there are a lot fewer potholes.  The city poured roughly $10 million into fixing streets this summer – a stimulus project designed to help the local paving industry by doing three years of planned work in one year.  At least one recipient of the stimulus money, C & E Pavement Maintenance, reported this summer it hadn't worked in six months.  Calls to the city reporting potholes are down by 60 percent, said the city's streets superintendent, Michael O'Connor. Internal goals for the city have potholes patched within 24 hours after being reported, under normal circumstances.” [Arizona Daily Sun, 1/6/10]

 

Recovery Act helps save a job at the Webb Center, one of 27 Arizona arts organizations receiving a boost from the Recovery Act. “The Webb Center received a grant of $13,000 to help preserve a portion of a position that was eliminated last year when it was obvious that granting and corporate donations were slowing:  Program Services Manager.  The Arizona Commission on the Arts (ACA) and Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF) have awarded one-time American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to support economic stimulus in Arizona’s creative sector.  In total, 27 Arizona arts organizations have or will receive support from one of these three agencies.” [The Wickenburg Sun, 12/16/09]

 

Scottsdale is ready for a “wave of projects” funded by the Recovery Act, including a pedestrian path and improved access at Eldorado Ballpark for people with disabilities.  “The first wave of projects in Scottsdale funded by federal stimulus dollars will start coming to life in a few months.  For the past 10 months, Scottsdale has applied for grants and other funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… The first projects include a pedestrian path for the Goldwater Boulevard underpass in downtown Scottsdale and improving access at Eldorado Ballpark for people with disabilities.  Since the recovery act was signed into law, Scottsdale has received more than $14.1 million in federal stimulus dollars.  The city has received money for transportation, energy efficiency and neighborhood improvement. ” [Arizona Republic, 12/10/09]

 

Recovery Act funds have been used to fill 24 teaching positions in the Dysart Unified School District with 8 more position to fill. “The Dysart Unified School District has created 32 positions to be funded with federal stimulus money.  To date, 24 positions have been filled, said Jim Dean, Dysart spokesman.  Dysart was awarded $4.3 million through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act:  $500,000 in Title I money for schools that have a high number or high percentage of low-income students, and $3.8 million in IDEA funds for special education… While many of the new special-education positions have been filled, the district has not yet received any money from special-education stimulus funds… Dysart also received a one-time payment of $6 million through federal stimulus money this year… The $6 million is equivalent to about 138 teaching positions, he said.” [Arizona Republic, 12/9/09]

 

Arizona State University will use Recovery Act funds from the National Institutes of Health for a pair of two-year projects focusing on rapid DNA sequencing and the potential health risks of nanotechnology.  “Arizona State University has been awarded nearly $3 million in federal stimulus funds from the National Institutes of Health.  ASU professors Stuart Lindsay and Paul Westerhoff will lead a pair of two-year projects focusing on rapid DNA sequencing and the potential health risks of nanotechnology. As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, NIH has established a program called Research and Research Infrastructure Grand Opportunities, also known as the GO grants program. The goal is to provide short-term funding to support innovation.  Lindsay, director of the ASU Biodesign Institute’s Center for Single-Molecule Biophysics, gets $1.7 million to use carbon nanotubes to help read larger chunks of DNA sequence information at a time.  The current technology allows 1,000 chemical letters in the human DNA chain to be read at a time.  ‘Our goal is to simplify DNA sequencing like the invention of the transistor simplified electronics,’ he said.  Westerhoff gets $1.2 million from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to improve the detection and assessment of potential health risks of engineered nanomaterials in water, food, commercial products and biological samples.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 11/17/09]

 

Construction workers will continue Recovery Act-funded roadway improvement project, moving into Benson Area.  “The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) continues roadway surface improvement operations on State Route (SR) 82 in the Sonoita area and is on schedule to move operations to westbound Interstate 10 near Benson in one week … The construction crew is scheduled to proceed to I-10 in the Benson area beginning Thursday, Nov. 12.  The road improvements will occur on two sections of westbound I-10 east of Benson - a five-mile section from mileposts 323 to 328 and a three-mile section from mileposts 333.2 to 336.2… The roadwork is part of a project to renew and preserve about seven miles of SR 82 and eight miles of I-10...   The improvements, funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, include the application of a treatment known as micro sealing… The process is fast-curing and, in most cases, traffic is allowed to return to the roadway within one hour.” [Wilcox Range News, 11/12/09]

 

9,758 jobs have been created in Arizona with Recovery Act funds; 80percent of those are estimatedto be in education.  “A report released by Gov. Jan Brewer’s office in October understates the impact stimulus money allocated by the state has had on Arizona’s job creation and retention, an ASU economist said.  Dennis Hoffman, an economics professor at the W. P. Carey School of Business, said the report, which says that 9,758 jobs were created or retained because of stimulus money, does not account for indirect jobs, stimulus for Arizona’s Medicaid or the amount given directly to local Arizona governments.  ‘When you inject a dollar from Washington into this state to support a job, that job ends up supporting other jobs in the state because it sustains spending, helps keep people in their homes, helps keep people buying goods and products from local businesses,’ he said... ‘Like Gov. Brewer has said, this stimulus money will not come close to mitigating the budget crisis but it does help.  Every time somebody is employed, it helps a family. ’ Peterson said nearly 80 percent of the jobs created and retained, about 7,734 jobs, were education related, which shows that education funding is high on Brewer’s list of priorities.” [The State Press, 11/9/09]

 

Recovery Act spending has created about 35 jobs at Luke Air Force Base; most were green or construction jobs.  “Companies awarded federal stimulus contracts were asked to submit job-creation progress reports to the government by Oct. 10.  A review of those reports for projects out at Luke Air Force Base show[s] that about $4 million in stimulus spending has created about 35 jobs.  Most of the Luke work involves paving cracked runways and making air-conditioning systems more energy efficient… Luke awarded the bulk of its stimulus contracts to small and minority-owned companies.” [Arizona Republic, 11/9/09]

 

Arizona schools are hiring more teachers and expanding thanks to Recovery Act funding; the funds will help the Social Transitions Academics Responsibility (S.T.A.R.) Program grow .  “Most of the students at S.T.A.R. Academy are in their classrooms or at lunch on a recent school day.  Some are playing on the swings and jungle gym.  But the tranquility of the small campus is shattered as a screaming child is carried across the courtyard and into the psychologist's office.  Although the boy's outburst can be a daily occurrence at the academy, Avondale Elementary School District's behavioral program, it doesn't deter the other students from learning.  In its second year, S.T.A.R. Academy is on its own campus and expanding with the help of federal stimulus money.  The district is using most of a $1 million special-education grant to purchase technology for the academy.  It also added two teachers and five behavioral specialists who assist teachers in the classrooms.  Avondale Elementary is among Arizona districts that have received or expect to receive federal funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  ” [Arizona Republic, 11/9/09]

 

Verde Valley commuters will have a bus, thanks to Recovery Act grant.  For many in the Verde Valley, especially commuters, the arrival of a regular Cottonwood-to-Sedona bus system is a dream come true.   It hits the road Monday, thanks to a stimulus grant.  Supervisor Chip Davis has long dreamed of a transit service that circulates around the entire Verde Valley, from Cottonwood to Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek, Rimrock and Camp Verde... The Northern Arizona Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority (NAIPTA) announced the Verde Lynx, a daily bus service between the two cities… Purchased with funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), the Verde Lynx buses are 25 seat low floor buses that are comfortable and accessible.” [Verde News, 11/5/09]

 

Nearly 10,000 jobs have been saved or created by the Recovery Act in Arizona.  “Nearly 10,000 jobs have been created or retained by Arizona’s stimulus money, according to the Governor’s Office.  Gov. Jan Brewer reported that 9,758 jobs were created in Arizona from February 17, when the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was passed by Congress, and Sept. 30, the end of the reporting period…  ‘I am pleased to see Recovery Act funds have contributed to areas such as Medicaid, education and transportation.’  The job creation numbers in the report cited jobs created or saved through stimulus money allocated directly to the state.  The federal government’s stimulus Web site, www.recovery.gov, reported that 12,283 jobs were created or saved in Arizona, a number that includes money allocated and distributed directly to other entities such as cities, counties, military bases and the U.S. Forest Service, according to Arizona Office of Economic Recovery spokeswoman Tasya Peterson.  Of the 9,758 jobs cited in the state report, about 80 percent were education related, Peterson said.  Another major source of jobs was the 186 transportation projects funded by stimulus dollars.  The Arizona Department of Transportation was awarded $335 million for those projects.” [Arizona Capitol Times, 11/2/09]

 

Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon stated that the jump in GDP is a sign that the Recovery Act is working.  “Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon … believes the big jump in the gross domestic product, announced Thursday, shows that the federal government's economic stimulus plan is working… The government reported the economy grew at an annual pace of 3.5 percent in the third quarter, marking the best showing in two years.  The growth was fueled by the stimulus plan which helped fuel demand for homes and cars… Gordon said home sales trickle down to create jobs ‘because a lot of those homes are then being renovated with smart technology, new insulation, weatherization, solar or fixing broken windows and replacing stoves that have been taken out.” [KTAR-Phoenix, 10/29/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will be used by the Navajo Tribal Utility Association to improve electrical services in Navajo Nation.  “Representative Ann Kirkpatrick announced today that the Department of Energy will be making $4,991,750 available to help enhance and modernize the electric grid on Navajo Nation.  Approximately 40 percent of households on the Navajo Reservation do not have electricity.  The grant is being allocated to the Navajo Tribal Utility Association (NTUA) to install a Smart Grid network and data management system, which will serve all of their 38,000 customers... This investment is being made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The funds are part of $3.4 billion being distributed nationwide in the largest single Smart Grid modernization investment in U.S. history.  They will be matched by private funding sources, for a total of over $8 billion directed at developing our electric grid.” [Naz Today, 10/27/09]

 

15 small school districts in Arizona will be using Recovery Act funding for the sole purpose of installing solar power systems in schools.  “Money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is finding its way to the two Yavapai County schools.  Gov. Jan Brewer chose 15 school districts from throughout the state to divide $2.9 million in ARRA money for the sole purpose of installing solar power systems in schools... The Arizona School Facilities Boards (SFB) is managing the program for the state.    According to the SFB solar energy awards chart, Skull Valley's elementary schoolhouse is 8,550 square feet, and the school board gets $240,000 for a solar power system... The SFB estimates that the solar power would save the district about $8,000 per year in its electric bill.” [Daily Courier, 10/27/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used for green retrofit Of Sunnyslope Manor assisted-housing units for seniors.  “The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded Phoenix $1.7 million in competitive American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds that will allow the city of Phoenix Housing Department to make assisted housing units more energy efficient.  The $1.7 million stimulus package will green-retrofit the 116 Sunnyslope Manor units at 205 E. Ruth Ave., a Section 8 property for seniors 62 and older.  ‘We are dedicated to our senior population.’ said Mayor Phil Gordon, ‘These energy efficient and green improvements will help them save on utility costs and help us save our little part of the planet.  And again, we’re creating jobs and putting Phoenix residents to work.’  The project will allow several optional green alternatives such as reflective metal roofs, Energy Star-rated roofing shingles and compact fluorescent lighting.  A number of green alternatives will be required including low-flow and low-flush plumbing fixtures, additional insulation and Energy Star-rated refrigerators, heating and cooling units, water heaters, windows and doors and lighting and lighting fixtures.” [East Valley Living, 10/22/09]

 

Northern Arizona University construction project will create 2,500 jobs, bring money to Flagstaff.  “Construction crews began razing Lumberjack Stadium on Tuesday as part of a project that will create about 2,500 jobs and generate more than $7.3 million in city and state tax revenue.  Northern Arizona University's Health and Learning Center, funded in large part through student-approved fees, will add more than $51 million in labor wages to the state's economy during the 21 months of construction… A new and improved Lumberjack Stadium will also be rebuilt as part of the project… ‘The increase in construction-related jobs is particularly welcome in this economy since the construction sector typically pays among the highest average wages when compared with jobs in other industries,’ said Ron Gunderson, NAU professor of economics.  ‘The project will not only increase jobs in the private sector, but the expenditures for goods and materials in the local area also generate increased sales tax revenues for the city of Flagstaff…”The university has worked closely with the selected contractor, Mortenson Construction, to encourage participation of area subcontractors, according to Jane Kuhn, associate vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs.” [ABC15, 10/14/09]

 

Recovery Act funds allocated to the University of Arizona will create or retain 157 full-time research jobs and fund the construction of new facilities focused on economic development for the region.  “Federal stimulus money is streaming in to the University of Arizona.  The university has won more than $81 million in grants for 122 research projects. The UA estimates that will create or preserve the equivalent of 157 full-time jobs…  $4.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act dollars are going to build phase one of the [Arizona Bioscience Park] complex...  ‘We want to bring companies to the Tucson area, but we also want to grow our own.  So this will be space for people who have new companies that need incubation and protection and mentoring and so on," says UA Vice President for Research, Graduate Studies, and Economic Development Dr. Leslie Tolbert…  There are programs for teachers too.  ‘Programs that work to help teachers hone their skills in teaching science, technology, engineering and math. Stem,’ Tolbert says.  A lot of the money coming to Tucson will be for research…   ‘It's sort of a two-sided kind of impact.  On the one hand, there's the work that's being done helping to cure cancer. But there's also the employment of people from the surrounding community with every new project that's funded,’ Tolbert says.  She says it's clear that projects getting stimulus money have a direct societal benefit.” [Kold News 13, 10/14/09]

 

Recovery Act funds allocated for Solar Projects in Fifteen Arizona School Districts.   “15 Arizona school districts will receive American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds for solar energy projects at schools throughout the state.  The funding is part of the $55,447,000 awarded to the Arizona Department of Commerce Energy Office through the State Energy Program (SEP).  The School Facilities Board (SFB) is managing the Solar on Schools grants for the state.  The grant will provide more than $5 million to procure photovoltaic systems for the qualifying school districts.  The current round of funding appropriates $2.6 million for school solar projects.  ‘These projects help our schools make energy-related investments for Arizona’s future,’ said Governor Brewer.  ‘They will generate clean energy and green jobs, reduce energy costs, and help keep more money in classrooms to educate our state’s children’…  The State Energy Program ARRA funds allocated to Arizona are being used to fund solar energy and energy efficiency improvements on public buildings throughout the state as well as supplementing utility company incentives for consumers who install renewable energy technologies.” [East Valley Living, 10/13/09]

 

Tucson and Pima County will create local jobs and train 1500 workers with Recovery Act funding.  “Tucson and Pima County are starting to see the money that is supposed to retain jobs and create new ones.  The bulk of Arizona's stimulus money is going to local governments.  So far, the City of Tucson's largest project is the Northwest Sun Tran Bus Storage and Maintenance facility.  A little more than $16 million of the $52 million dollars the city has been awarded so far will go to finish this bus yard.  So far, Pima County has received $26 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The county will spend nearly a quarter of its money training about 1,500 jobless people.  Jim Mize is with Pima County Employer Outreach.” [KoldNews 13, 10/5/09]

 

University of Arizona will use Recovery Act funds to research therapeutic drugs, expected to add small number of employees to handle additional research tasks.  “More than $7 million in federal stimulus money is coming to the University of Arizona and the Translational Genomics Research Institute for a drug discovery and development center.  The two-year $7.5 million grant comes from the National Institutes of Health, and officials say the new Southwest Comprehensive Center for Drug Discovery and Development will put renewed focus on the role of medicinal chemistry. The UA College of Pharmacy and TGen will team up on the project, with the goal being to alleviate bottlenecks that exist between the lab-based discovery of promising therapeutic targets, and the ultimate goal of delivering new drugs.  Both TGen and the UA College of Pharmacy are expected to add a small number of new employees as a result of the grant. Research and development is expected to cover a host of diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer’s and heart disease and also events such as exposure to pathogens. ” [Phoenix Business Journal, 10/5/09] 

 

Thanks to Recovery Act funding, the International Genomics Consortium will triple its workforce of 45 to study the genetic roots of cancer.  “A Phoenix laboratory will claim a share of $275 million in federal research grants that will drive a massive study of the genetic roots of cancer.  The International Genomics Consortium, at the downtown Phoenix Biomedical Campus, said the cancer-research project called the Cancer Genome Atlas will allow the biomedical research lab to more than triple its workforce of 45 employees.   Although the Atlas project could be the largest new science project for Arizona, research labs across the state will be buzzing with activity due to a new batch of federal stimulus grants.   Arizona scientists secured 101 research grants that are collectively worth more than $33 million, a Republic analysis of National Institutes of Health records shows.  ” [Arizona Republic, 10/05/09]

 

Navajo Nation will be able to construct three detention centers and hire personnel, thanks to $73.3 million in Recovery Act funding.  “Nearly $74 million in federal stimulus funds will be used to construct three sorely needed adult detention centers on the Navajo Nation.  President Joe Shirley Jr. announced Sept. 23 that the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety and judicial branch staff had successfully sought $73.3 million in funding for the new centers.  Although the three new centers do not fulfill Shirley’s goal of building 12 all-in-one justice centers across the Navajo Nation, they will replace aging facilities that pose health and safety risks… The new centers to be built with the federal funding will include not only jail cells, but also offices for pre-trial services as well as space for inmate programs designed to reduce the incarceration rate.  According to Shirley, $38.5 million will be used to construct a 48-bed detention center in Tuba City, $31 million for a 38-bed facility in Kayenta and $3.8 million for a small facility in Ramah…. The goal of the program is to prevent juvenile delinquency, and eventually reduce the number of youth and adults in the criminal justice system.  It will include education for youth and adults on gangs, truancy, school dropouts, parenting, after school programs and will also include intervention programs for “court-involved youth.” [Arizona Journal, 9/30/09]

 

Three municipalities will use Recovery Act funds for fire station construction, renovation and modification.  “Buckeye is receiving $3.5 million in federal stimulus funds to build a fire station in the Verrado community.  Only three municipalities in Arizona are getting a slice of the $165 million awarded for fire station construction, renovation and modification… Other stimulus-funded fire stations are coming to Mesa and Gilbert.  They will receive $4 million and $2.9 million, respectively... In Buckeye, the money will allow the fire department to replace an aging temporary station in Verrado.  Fire Chief Bob Costello said the permanent station has been planned for two years.  The town had run out of options for funding it.  ‘Just given the economic circumstances, we were never able to come up (with) a funding source for it,’ he said.  The stimulus grant changes all that.  ” [Arizona Republic, 9/29/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will allow hundreds of unemployed Arizona residents to receive job training through community colleges and local schools.  “Hundreds of Valley unemployed residents will go back to school and gain new skills thanks to federal stimulus dollars.  At least 90 people can begin job training classes at Maricopa Community Colleges as part of $200,000 to $300,000 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  More will follow during the next few months… The stimulus money will pay for tuition, materials, and licensure and certification testing... Maricopa Workforce Connections and Phoenix Workforce Connection routinely see Valley residents looking for employment help.  The two centers provide one-on-one counseling, resume building, interview classes and public computers for job searches… Spending to create the cohorts is stimulus money working, the Arizona Democrat said, emphasizing that job training is essential because many jobs may not be coming back.” [Arizona Republic, 9/29/09]

 

Small and minority-owned businesses win contracts for Luke Air Force Base Recovery Act-funded project, helping them create jobs and avoid layoffs. “Small and minority-owned businesses have received nearly all of the contracts for stimulus-funded improvement work at Luke Air Force Base, unique when compared with other state and military operations that tend to favor large, corporate bidders.  Economists say the feat is noteworthy when trying to the gauge the impact of local stimulus spending.  Nearly 99 percent of Arizona businesses employ fewer than 500 people, and they create the majority of new jobs each year.  ‘Most of the Luke work involves paving cracked runways and making air-conditioning systems more energy efficient.  Base officials won't know the number of jobs created by the contracts, valued at around $12 million, until the selected companies submit progress reports later this fall.  But the work has helped firms such as Mesa-based Utility Construction Company Inc. limit layoffs, said operations manager Ken Nickum…” [The Arizona Republic, 9/28/09]

 

Arizona Western College will use Recovery Act money to limit tuition increases, prevent personnel reductions and create jobs.  “The college will receive $1.3 million in federal stimulus money through the State Fiscal Stabilization Funds…. Alison Howell, communications coordinator at AWC, said the college will use the funding to offset capital expenditures in the 2009-2010 budget.  She said leadership at the college said they have not received capital funding in the past two fiscal years and this money will help make up for that. Glasper said,  ‘Community colleges are a major part of the economic engine that will drive Arizona's recovery, and this money is essential to that process.’  Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer said,  ‘These funds will allow the state's community colleges to limit tuition increases, prevent personnel reductions and create jobs.” [The Yuma Sun, 9/27/09]

 

Arizona community colleges will use Recovery Act allocation to limit tuition increases, prevent personnel reductions, and create jobs.  “Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer said Thursday the state has released $8.9 million in federal stimulus money to community colleges.  The outlays are going to community colleges in Pima, Yavapai, Cochise, Mohave and Graham counties…  ‘These funds will allow the state’s community colleges to limit tuition increases, prevent personnel reductions and create jobs.’  The money is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.” [Phoenix business Journal, 9/24/09]

 

In Arizona, Recovery Act money will help fund the construction of a new state veterans home that will accommodate 120 people.  “A new state veteran’s home will open in Tucson in 2011, thanks to Arizona legislators and federal stimulus money.  Five years after the project was first proposed, state lawmakers gave it the go-ahead on Tuesday, agreeing to kick in $10 million toward the $28.5 million construction cost.  The federal Department of Veterans Affairs will cover the rest with money allotted under the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The federal portion — 65 percent — finally came through recently because of the stimulus bill, he said.   ‘Arizona is home to about 600,000 military veterans, with 102,000 of them living in the Tucson metro area, Dave Hampton said.  But the state now has just one government-run veterans home — opened in 1995 in Phoenix — when it should have five, he said.  The home will accommodate up to 120 veterans in four 30-bed units, including one for Alzheimer's patients.”  [Arizona Daily Star, 9/24/09]

 

Arizona set to use $32 million in Recovery Act funding to revive more than 30 stalled affordable-housing projects for Native American families, seniors and the disabled. “The developments are expected to create at least a thousand homes for residents who cannot find housing they can afford, as well as at least 2,000 construction, government and service jobs.  The low-income residential projects range from the Catherine Arms apartments for Native Americans in downtown Phoenix to the Santa Fe Springs subdivision for families in Sierra Vista.  With the state in a foreclosure crisis and unemployment soaring, Arizona's homeless population is at a record high.  About $32 million of Arizona's stimulus funds for housing will be spent to restart at least 20 projects.  Construction stopped last fall on Catherine Arms but restarted recently.  Rents at the redevelopment project for Native Americans will start below $500 a month.” [The Arizona Republic, 9/21/09]

 

$36.2 million in Recovery Act awarded to Gila River Indian Community to serve up to 146,000 acres of land a year with irrigation water.  “Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that the Bureau of Reclamation is providing $36.2 million to the Gila River Indian Community under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.The Community, located approximately 30 miles south of Phoenix, Ariz., will use the funding to contract for the construction of approximately 13.1 miles of new, concrete-lined canal and associated check structures, accelerating completion of the Central Arizona Project (CAP) component of its Pima-Maricopa Irrigation Project (P-MIP).  The P-MIP will ultimately enable the Community to serve up to 146,000 acres of land a year with irrigation water… ‘This investment will help restore water resources to the Community, boost the local economy and help farmers, businesses and families within the Community get the water they need to thrive,’ Secretary Salazar said.  [DOI, 9/18/09]

 

Recovery Act will fund solar energy project in Graham, Greenlee, and Cochise Counties.  “The federal Bureau of Land Management office in Safford has been allocated nearly $1.8 million for projects in Graham, Greenlee and parts of Cochise counties, members of the Gila Watershed Partnership learned Sept. 9.  Lance Brady of the local BLM office said an additional $100,000 is allocated for a solar energy project.  The money comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, known as the stimulus plan.  ‘Every penny of this money will be with contracts,’ Brady said, explaining private contractors will work on the projects.  The projects include 6,000 acres of aerial spraying, fencing and erosion control on federal lands.” [Eastern Arizona Courier, 9/16/09]

 

$1.4 million in Recovery Act funds will be used to reduce the risk of wildfire in at-risk area.  “The U.S. Department of Agriculture will be making $1.4 million available to reduce the risk of wildfire for the communities of Heber-Overgaard.  The funds will be used for thinning and to help convert the residue into electricity and are being allocated through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.” ‘Rep. Kirkpatrick:  “Every summer, our firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our communities from wildfires.  This sort of land management project is vital to their efforts to help keep us safe.  With these Recovery Act funds, we will be able to get folks back to work and reduce the risk for our families and homes.” [White Mountain Independent, 9/11/09]

 

Recovery Act -funded road project to create 530 jobs.  “The Arizona Department of Transportation will start work today on widening Interstate 10 in the West Valley, its top-priority stimulus-funded project.  The work will widen 6 miles of freeway to three lanes in each direction between Sarival Avenue and Verrado Way.  The project was ranked first in priority among 41 stimulus projects by Arizona's State Transportation Board last spring. At $21.8 million…it is expected to create around 530 jobs. Tempe-based Fisher Sand & Gravel Co. won the contract.” [Arizona Republic, 9/11/09]

 

Recovery Act money helps create Forest Service jobs.  “The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) will provide funding for several Forest Service projects in Arizona.  The 44 projects, funded at more than $40 million, are located on Forest Service land in Arizona.  The Southwestern Region includes the national forests in Arizona and New Mexico and grasslands in Oklahoma and Texas.  Many of the communities most affected by the economic downturn are located near national forests.  Using funding from ARRA the Forest Service will create jobs that support our mission of sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.”  Regional Forester Corbin Newman:  “The Southwestern Region’s participation in the ARRA effort will restore forests and grasslands, reduce wildlife risks, develop wood to energy technology, and improve our public facilities while providing private sector jobs.” [CBS Kold News 13, 09/10/09]

 

Chandler-Area Elementary School used Recovery Act funds to buy textbooks for science lab.  “A Chandler elementary school has built one of the first K-6 science labs in the state to spark the scientific imagination of natural born scientists - children.  The lab at San Marcos Elementary School celebrated its grand opening last week with comments from its student council president, principal, teachers and students who were downright giddy about its opening… S.T.E.M. stands for science, technology, engineering and math - exactly what the students will be taking turns doing now that the lab is functioning.  Jason Phillips, an instructional specialist with Chandler Unified School District, said science literacy has become important for schools as the state Department of Education has changed its standards, requiring testing in science each spring to measure students' progress… It cost the school little to equip the lab because it used federal stimulus funding to buy science books, said Jamie Merrill, a curriculum specialist.’” [Arizona Republic, 9/4/09] 

 

City of Somerton will use Recovery Act funds for rural water projects.  “[T]he city of Somerton will receive funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan for rural water projects.  Somerton will receive a $2,147,000 loan and $2,596,063 grant for water and wastewater infrastructure… The stimulus funding is part of an additional $172.5 million in funding for water and environmental projects in 24 states being allocated by USDA.”  Representative Grijalva:  ‘These funds will be used to ensure public safety for the city of Somerton.  The funds will be used to protect the environment and provide much-needed infrastructure improvements for rural residents.  These projects are also beneficial to Arizona because they will result in the creation of a large number of local jobs.” [The Yuma Sun, 9/3/09] 

 

Tucson will use Recovery Act funds to buy foreclosed homes and renovate them to be leased or sold at more affordable prices.  “More than one-and-a-half-million dollars in government stimulus money is already in action in the Grand Canyon state.  In Tucson, it's helping communities grow.  The federal cash flow is not only making foreclosed homes within Tucson more affordable; it's also creating jobs in the construction industry.  Ronald Koenig is sizing up where the $40,000 kitchen will be.  This is the first of 20 houses purchased by the city that's getting a facelift.  Steve Hammond who works for the City of Tucson says, ‘We're trying to make the house more energy conscious and of course the yards, and make it better for the neighborhood.’  Even the electrical work is getting an update.  And that's adding a spark to Rick Todd's paycheck.  The contractor he works for is rehabilitating four of the city's houses.  ‘This could be a win-win situation because the homes will be filled again with families; they'll give people a place to live,’ says Todd.  It helps improve property value, next door neighbor Gloria Welles says, ‘It's been sitting there empty, it's been vandalized a few times, I just as well have someone go in there fix it up and sell it and have someone live in it.’  The city intends to purchase another 20 homes and give them a facelift as well.” [KVOA News 4 Tucson, 8/27/09] 

 

The Maricopa County adult probation department will use Recovery act money to fund five positions for surveillance officers in its fugitive apprehension unit.  “County supervisors announced Tuesday that the Maricopa County Adult Probation Department would accept stimulus money for 2009 funding.  The Adult Probation Department is the first in the nation to do so.  The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors recently voted unanimously to accept $685,993 in stimulus funding for the departments’ Fugitive Apprehension Unit, which combats narcotics activity along the Mexican border.  According to a Tuesday news release, the stimulus money for the Adult Probation Department is vital as the department serves more warrants for narcotics activity than any other law enforcement agency in the nation.  The funding is part of the $5.5 million dollars from the American Recovery Investment Act that has been given to Arizona to fight crime and drug trafficking as outlined in the Justice Department's Southwest Border Strategy… Five positions for surveillance officers will be funded for two years under the accepted stimulus money.” [ABC15.com, 8/25/09] 

 

Mesa will receive Recovery Act funds to assist renters in danger of eviction.  “Among the programs funded by the federal stimulus package is one called the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program.  That unwieldy title covers a variety of efforts to keep people in their homes or put a roof over their heads if they're on the street… Last week Mesa announced it was getting about $1.4 million for its slice of the overall $1.5 billion federal effort… The program helps renters who are about to be evicted or have their utilities turned off. It offers short- and medium-term rental assistance, security deposits, utility payments, moving assistance, legal help and assistance with looking for new housing.” [The Republic, 8/25/09] 

 

In Tucson, the University of Arizona will use Recovery Act grant for infrastructure improvements at biological research facility.  “…The University of Arizona will receive a $4.7 million grant to construct phase one infrastructure improvements at the Arizona Bioscience Park.  The grant is being awarded through the Economic Development Administration and funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  As part of the federal stimulus legislation passed, this project is ‘shovel ready’ with all infrastructure improvements designed.  This grant will fund critically important on-site infrastructure improvements at the Bio Park including: roads, water systems (potable, waste, storm and reclaimed), dry utilities – including gas, electricity and telecommunications – and perimeter landscaping.  When completed, these improvements will make the Bio Park ‘development ready.”  Commerce Secretary Locke:  “The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness.  The Arizona Bioscience Park will provide the Tucson region with a comprehensive training and research facility that will work to boost workforce training, research and development opportunities, higher-skilled, higher-wage jobs, and private sector investment in the bioscience sector.” [The University of Arizona, 8/24/09] 

 

Phoenix was awarded Recovery Act money for two park-and-ride lots, transit center and bus stop updates, and preventative maintenance.  “More stimulus money is headed to Phoenix for transit projects. U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced Thursday that $88.8 million from the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will be awarded to the city of Phoenix for several projects.  They include $52.1 million for two park-and-ride lots, transit center and bus stop updates, shade canopies, preventive maintenance and right-of-way acquisitions; $36 million for costs associated with the expansion of the Metro light rail; and $640,070 for a bus access crossover lane near State Route 51 and Bell Road in the north Valley.” [MSN Money, 8/20/09] 

 

Lovato family home safer and more energy-efficient thanks to Recovery Act-funded weatherization, which put 18 locals to work.  “The Lovato family's 1954 brick home in central Phoenix is one of the first in Arizona to receive federal stimulus money aimed at making lower-income residences more energy efficient.  With the mercury in 100-plus-degree territory, construction workers Wednesday replaced a leaky duct system, upgraded air-conditioning units and spread insulation in the attic of a home in the St. Gregory neighborhood, the first sign weatherization stimulus dollars finally are flowing into the local economy.  ‘It makes our home much more comfortable, cooler and a lot more affordable,’ said homeowner Scott Lovato, a hairstylist whose family joined Mayor Phil Gordon and other officials at a news conference in front of their home near 19th Avenue and Osborne Road.  The project, which will wrap up this week, is expected to shave 30 percent to 40 percent from the family's $440 monthly energy bill.  It has employed six full-time and a dozen part-time workers for the past two weeks.  The Lovatos are among the first of 1,200 Phoenix households that will benefit from the city's $7.2 million weatherization grant during the next three years. Each home can receive as much as $6,500 in upgrades.  Five other home-weatherization projects are under way across the city… ‘At a time when the economy really stinks and people were out of work, a lot of people were working on this,’ Scott Lovato said.  ‘This put paychecks in their pockets so they could feed their families. I think that is probably the best thing out of all of this.’” [The Arizona Republic, 8/20/09] 

 

Taylor-based Hatch Construction won Recovery Act-funded contract to repair airport taxiways.  “‘I’m glad to see it was local,’ said Taylor Councilman Robin Palmer regarding the award of a contract for the Taylor Municipal Airport taxi lane construction Aug. 12. Armstrong Consultants Inc. is the engineering firm for the project and was present for the July 22 bid opening.  Representatives of the firm tabulated the bids and reviewed proposals for math errors, bid bonds and other items of responsiveness, and noted a week later that the bids appeared to be responsive.  Building Official Jeff Johnson explained that this project is a mirrored image of what was done when they built the new hangars, and will be located on the northeast side of the new hangars… Hatch Construction & Paving Inc. was awarded the contract in a unanimous vote.” [Arizona Journal, 8/19/09]  

 

Recovery Act will pay for LS Fence to do work at water sites in Taylor. “The council… unanimously approved an agreement for construction of fencing at two Taylor water sites.  Finance Director Gus Lundberg explained that the procedure is for the town to obtain funding through the Water Infrastructure and Finance Authority of Arizona, but the town will be required to pay back only $66,000 of the $110,000 loan because it received $44,000 in stimulus money.  There were three packets picked up, but no bids were submitted. Public Works Director Ron Solomon was asked to contact the companies that took out packets and ask them to bid.  Only one bid was received, $82,113 from LS Fence LLLP of St. Johns.  The council approved awarding the contract to LS Fence.” [Arizona Journal, 8/19/09]  

 

200 valley businesses participate in Recovery Act-funded youth employment program, hiring 500 disadvantaged youths for summer internships.  “Until recently, 20-year-old Lindy Booth was facing a hard time.  She was on the streets and then lived in a domestic-violence shelter after that. But Booth caught a break about two months ago when she landed a paid internship at TumbleTees, a youth-operated T-shirt screen-printing business. TumbleTees is one of about 200 Valley businesses participating in a youth-employment program paid in part with $3 million in stimulus dollars.  About $1.3 million of that goes directly to the summer youth program; the rest supports other year-round youth efforts.  The businesses hired about 500 youths ages 14 to 24 from around the Valley who will work through September, earning $8 an hour… The goal is to help disadvantaged youth learn about emerging careers in the local area, said Valencia, adding that the benefits of the program are twofold.  ‘It's going to somewhat stimulate the economy because the youth tend to go out and spend their dollars more quickly than an adult would,’ Valencia said… Booth now lives with a roommate and says she enjoys her work screen-printing T-shirts.  ‘It's by far the most artistic, creative job I've ever had,’ Booth said.” [Arizona Republic, 8/17/09] 

 

Phoenix battery company will spend Recovery Act-funded grant to test recharging stations in several states.  “The largest of the $2.4 billion in DOE grants went to manufacturers in Indiana and Michigan.  Also among the projects, Phoenix-based Electric Transportation Engineering Corp. will install 12,500 recharging stations in five test markets in Arizona, California, Oregon, Tennessee and Washington.” [WVNS Channel 28 News, 8/16/09]   

 

Recovery Act will fund research at Arizona State University and University of Arizona in Tucson on hydrogen and solar-derived energy, respectively.  “Arizona State University and the University of Arizona in Tucson have been tapped by the Department of Energy as part of a major, $377M funding effort to accelerate energy scientific breakthroughs, the DOE said today.  According to the DOE, it is awarding $377M in funding to 46, multi-million-dollar Energy Frontier Research Centers (EFRCs) located at universities, national laboratories, nonprofit organizations, and private firms across the nation.  As part of that effort, AZU was awarded $14M over five years, to adapt the fundamental principles of natural photosynthesis to the man-made production of hydrogen or other fuels from sunlight; the University of Arizona was awarded $15M for five years, to enhance the conversion of solar energy to electricity using hybrid inorganic-organic materials.  The DOE said the purpose of the grants is to help reduce the nation's need for imported oil and to curtail greenhouse gas emissions; funding came from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as well as the DOE's FY2009 budget.” [Tech Rockies, 8/13/09]  

 

Recovery Act funding will allow Arizona to undertake a review of its energy systems and guarantee emergency readiness.  “Arizona will get more than $796,000 courtesy of the federal stimulus bill to make sure its energy systems are up to snuff in cases of emergency.  The state ranked 15th in terms of money as the U.S. Department of Energy announced the recipients of about $38 million in funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that will be dedicated to improving state emergency preparedness plans.  The funds will be used to plan for energy supply disruptions and assess the vulnerability of the state’s electric infrastructure.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 8/12/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded Yuma Private Industry Council for 800 youth workers.  “Yuma youths are gaining job skills the tasty way, as they prepare and serve meals for the Golden Baseball League players.  The Culinary Arts Project is one of Yuma Private Industry Council's summer youth projects.  YPIC has trained 15 young people from the community in food preparation and safety.  Duly Gamez instructs the youths and oversees the project.  ‘The program has gone so fast, but they have already picked up the skills,’ Gamez said.  YPIC's summer youth projects are part of a special summer program made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The program is open to young people ages 14 to 24, who gain job skills and practical experience while earning minimum wage.  All participants come from low-income families, as stipulated by the government.  More than 800 young people have been involved with the program, working either in local businesses or on one of YPIC's special projects.” [Yuma Sun, 8/11/09]

 

Recovery Act will allow Arizona health centers to fund numerous projects, handle rapidly increasing demand for services.  “Community health centers like Mountain Park's could help any new national health-care reform plan carry out one of its primary missions: extending coverage and care to the nation's estimated 47 million uninsured residents.  And as if to set the stage in Arizona, the federal stimulus program is injecting $25.6 million into the state's network of 16 federally qualified health centers, which operate more than 100 medical and dental clinics, mostly in rural or underserved areas.  The funds are allowing the clinics to hire more doctors, renovate facilities and provide new patients low-cost and preventative care.  The money also is aimed at spurring the economy.  The help comes at a time when the state budget crisis is forcing Arizona to cut back on funding programs that aid the community health centers… In Arizona, Native American Community Health Center Inc., also known as Native Health, has opened a new clinic in northwest Phoenix with a $1.3 million Recovery Act grant… Clinica Adelante received two separate pots of funding under the stimulus plan…  Mountain Park, meanwhile, plans to use $1.9 million in federal grants to replace heating, cooling and ventilation equipment, upgrade the roof, and expand classroom space at its Baseline clinic.” [Arizona Republic, 8/10/09]

 

Over 800 young people employed by Recovery Act-supported Yuma Private Industry Council summer youth projects, learning vital job skills and accruing a salary – many for the first time.  “For 16-year-old Jameka Grayson, planning and running entertaining activities for 8-year-olds is no sweat.  Grayson is a participant in the Recreational Leadership Project, one of the Yuma Private Industry Council's summer youth projects.  YPIC has trained youths from the community in leadership and how to work with children from low-income families… YPIC's summer youth projects are part of a special summer program made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The program is open to young people ages 14 to 24, who gain job skills and practical experience while earning minimum wage.  All participants come from low-income families, as stipulated by the government.  More than 800 young people are currently involved with the program, working either in local businesses or on one of YPIC's special projects.” [Yuma Sun, 8/9/09]

 

Recovery Act disbursement to Ecotality Inc. will lead to hiring of 750 new workers for electric vehicle charging station construction.  “When electric vehicle charging stations start cropping up around the Phoenix area, about 750 new workers will be developing a network that could one day span the country.  With the announcement that Ecotality Inc. and its subsidiary Electric Transportation Engineering Corp. will receive $99.8 million in federal stimulus funds to finance an electric vehicle charging infrastructure in partnership with Nissan Motor Co., the local company is on pace to add jobs and space to its facilities, said Don Karner, eTec’s president. ‘This adds positions to the 5,000-plus jobs that are part of Nissan’s initiative,’ he said.  The deal, announced Wednesday, will have the Phoenix-based eTec leading the charge in creating an network of charging stations in about a dozen cities nationwide, including Phoenix and Tucson.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 8/5/09]

 

Greater Foothills Helping Hands, which provides help to seniors, has been aided by 80 young employees paid for by Recovery Act.  “Greater Foothills Helping Hands, which provides volunteers to perform domestic chores for the elderly and disabled, received a hand up this summer when Arizona Western College in conjunction with Yuma Private Industry Council provided employment for 80 Yuma high school students, through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  Judy Arnold, Helping Hands executive director, said the students did a phenomenal job with yard work and it was a total blessing to have them.  ‘A lot of our care receivers can't afford this,’ Arnold said.  ‘The work wouldn't have gotten done if it wasn't for the students.’  Arnold noted students were considerate and willing to help.  ‘I think the program was such a positive plus for everyone involved.  We're certainly thankful we're able to have them participate.’” [Yuma Sun, 7/21/09]

 

Kyl’s criticism of Recovery Act  is misplaced and inaccurate; doesn’t comprehend methods and data.  “It is far too early to declare that the stimulus isn't working.  [Senator Jon] Kyl opposed the Recovery Act from the beginning and his criticisms mirror what he said when the stimulus package passed… Kyl bases his opinion, in part, on estimates that 48 percent of the money will be spent during the first two years of the act, roughly by February 2011.  That benchmark isn't the best measurement.  The economic boost occurs when specific projects are contracted, not only when a state receives a check from the federal government, Ed DeSeve, special adviser to President Obama for Recovery implementation, told us Friday…  ‘The economic activity is prompted by the obligation,’ DeSeve said… There are many people in Arizona who have lost their jobs or homes, or who are struggling to stay afloat.  Every elected official has an obligation to ask questions.  However, at this point, Kyl's efforts would better serve his constituents if redirected to improve the system and ensure that Arizona taxpayers receive what they deserve.” [Arizona Daily Star, 7/19/09]

 

Recovery Act facilitated meal program for Chino Valley Senior Citizen Center, ensuring that each resident will receive 20 free meals.  “Chino Valley senior citizens will get to eat 20 extra meals at the Senior Citizen Center between now and June 30, 2010, thanks to a federal grant.  Jason Kelly, Parks, Recreation & Senior Services director, said this is possible because the department received a $4,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency through Yavapai County's Emergency Management Division.  He said this money is part of the $56,591 the county received from FEMA under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county.” [Prescott Daily Courier, 7/11/09]

 

Recovery Act-financed EPA program to remedy petroleum leaks across Arizona.  “The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has handed out $3.2 million in stimulus dollars to Arizona for cleanup of petroleum leaks from underground storage tanks... Acting regional administrator for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest region:  ‘These cleanups will protect our valuable groundwater supplies, while creating green jobs that will improve our economy.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 7/9/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to build a new community health clinic in Cottonwood.  “A new 6,500-square-foot Community Health Services clinic is coming to Cottonwood, thanks, in part, to a federal stimulus grant. In fact, the Yavapai County Health Department and the Prescott Free Clinic, which are partners in the Yavapai Community Health Service operations, have been trying to work out plans to build a new clinic in Cottonwood. [Camp Verde Bugle, 7/7/09]

 

$725,000 Recovery Act funds assigned to Salt River project for home weatherization assistance.  “Salt River Project customers now can receive up to $6,000 from the utility for improvements to their home’s energy efficiency.  The utility announced on Tuesday that it is increasing its cap from $4,000.  With federal stimulus money factored in, a homeowner in SRP’s service area could get up to $12,500 for energy efficiency renovations.  ‘Increasing the funding level for individual homes will result in more comprehensive energy-efficient improvements,’ said Debbie Kimberly, SRP’s manager of energy efficiency and policy analysis.  ‘The customers who participate in this program will have lower electricity bills and experience improved comfort levels throughout their house.’” [Phoenix Business Journal, 7/7/09]

 

100 young people employed at Coconino County Career Center using $266,000 Recovery Act grant.  “Coconino County received $266,000 in federal stimulus money to provide temporary summer jobs to 100 low-income youths.  Eleven of the young workers are in Williams, the others in Page, Flagstaff and Fredonia.  The funds come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed into law by President Barack Obama in February.  The federal money comes in the nick of time, too.  In the eight years of the George W. Bush administration 50 percent of federal youth employment funds were diverted to other Bush programs, such as faith-based initiatives, Curtis explained.  ‘The county had been providing funds,’ Curtis [director of the Center] said.  However, the worsening economy made it impossible for the county to continue to fund summer youth work programs this year, she said.” [Williams News, 7/7/09]

 

Construction can begin on Tubac arsenic removal plant with release of Recovery Act funds.  “In April, WIFA [Water Infrastructure Finance Authority] announced that residents of Tubac who receive water service from Arizona American Water will benefit from a combination of federal grants and loans… The removal facility is needed to bring local drinking water into compliance with new stringent US EPA standards for arsenic levels in drinking water.  WIFA is responsible for administering funds provided to the State of Arizona from the Federal Stimulus Package for water and sewer projects.” [Engineering Business Journal, 7/1/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will pay for Sunset Community Health Center expansion to provide affordable health care to 2,400 additional patients.  “CEO David Rogers said he was happy it came through.  ‘We're just extremely appeased with the opportunity to receive this money,’ Rogers said.  ‘If we hadn't, we would not have been able to remodel the facility.’  And that remodel will not only include one more provider, which Rogers said will allow for 2,400 more patients and 3,600 patient encounters, but it will give the clinic a whole new look… They'll add two more exam rooms and one treatment room, Rogers said.  He said they'll also replace the roof, the heating and cooling system, the lighting and the flooring… Earlier this year, Sunset received $250,000 in stimulus money for an additional 10 employees throughout its clinics.  With these new stimulus funds, 16 health centers across Arizona, including Sunset, will receive a total of $16.1 million for construction, renovation and repair.” [The (Yuma, AZ) Sun, 6/30/09]

 

Arizona will use Recovery Act-funded tax credit assistance program to expand low income housing rentals.  “U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced that HUD is approving plans submitted by Arizona for $32,308,066 to jump start affordable housing programs currently stalled due to the economic recession.  Funded through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act), HUD's new Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) will provide $1,035,322,485 to 26 state housing finance agencies to resume funding of affordable rental housing projects across the nation while stimulating employment in the hard-hit construction trades.” [Targeted News Service, 6/30/09]

 

$567,178 in Recovery Act funds provide a “major boost” for Black Hills back country byway improvements.  “A local historical attraction and alternative route between Clifton-Morenci and Safford is receiving a major boost from the federal government and the Arizona Department of Transportation.  Road widening and other improvements are scheduled for the Black Hills Back Country Byway to be paid for with money from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The program was recently initiated by U.S. President Barack Obama’s administration to quickly pump money into the ailing U.S. economy through public works projects involving construction.  It is seen as being akin to the public works projects put in place by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression of the 1930s.” [Eastern Arizona Courier, 6/28/09]

 

Maricopa County Community College System – one of the largest in the U.S. – will be bolstered by at least $29 million in Recovery Act monies.  “Maricopa County's community colleges will be getting a boost from two sources of federal funds.  They stand to get more than half the estimated $58 million the U.S. Department of Education is funneling through the Governor's Office to Arizona's 14 community-college districts to replace money cut by the Legislature.  In addition, they will receive an undetermined amount from $15.9 million in funds for job training and will seek some of the $750 million in U.S. Labor Department grants. [Associated Press, 6/15/09]

 

Arizona will use $1 billion in Recovery Act education funding to offset education cuts and rehire recently laid-off teachers.  The stimulus money will help schools bring back more teachers who were laid off in the spring. [Arizona Republic, 6/11/09]

 

Arizona will receive $22.8 million in Recovery Act funds for its weatherization program.  Governor:  “The timing is tremendous for both the workers and the citizens that will benefit.  Being among the first means we get a jump start on putting Arizonans back to work, and it comes at a time when consumers really need the help with summer cooling bills.” [The Arizona Guardian, 6/8/09]

 

Unexpectedly low construction bids increase productivity of Recovery Act allotments to Arizona Department of Transportation.  Saving are in excess of $7.3 million that will be pooled back into Arizona's 13 rural counties to fund other shovel-ready projects further down ADOT's priority list. [Kingman Daily Miner, 6/8/09]

 

Recovery-Act-funded road project in New Mexico enabled Tempe-based FNF Construction to keep staff on board.  Project “may spur new hires as it reconditions a stretch of U.S. 491 in New Mexico.” [Phoenix Business Journal, 6/4/09]

 

Pima County dedicating $10 million for sewer improvement.  “County officials estimate the project will create between 170 and 200 construction-related jobs, including contractors, suppliers and engineers and another 85 to 100 indirect jobs.” [Arizona Daily Star, 5/26/09]

 

Recovery Act funded forest restoration and removal of hazardous fuels projects will create jobs in Arizona. [White Mountain Independent, 5/15/09]

 

Solar companies growing thanks to Recovery Act.  Tempe-based evolution Solar Corp CEO: “three months ago there was no stimulus bill and markets were coasting downward.  Now the landscape has changed.” [CyberMedia India Online, 5/17/09]

 

Arizona will receive $961,000 in Recovery Act funds for retraining and providing assistance to workers displaced by jobs that have left the country.  States are allowed to use it for workforce development, career guidance and job search training. [AZBiz, 5/15/09]

 

Marie Torres’ company MRM Construction Services won contract, funded by Recovery Act.  Project will improve Luke Air Force Base. [Phoenix Business Journal, 5/15/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to help close the Arizona budget gap. [Phoenix Business Journal, 5/13/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will help Graham County provide job training and education to low-income youth.  Workforce Development pays each participant $7.25 per hour for a 30-hour work week.  The summer job lasts eight weeks.  The types of jobs include clerical work, teaching assistant and outdoor positions with the U.S. Forest Service. [Eastern Arizona Courier, 5/13/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will help Arizona State University’s financial stability.  University will retain teachers and keep costs low. [Arizona Capitol Times, 5/11/09]

 

Recovery Act money reaches Yavapai County health clinics.  Funding enabling them to increase clinic hours and hire additional staff. [Prescott Daily Courier, 5/6/09]

 

Fish and Wildlife Service is using Recovery Act funds to restore wildlife habitats in Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge.  “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is using stimulus funds to restore valuable wetlands and wildlife habitat in Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge near Turrell, Ark.  The Service awarded a $660,000 contract to Ducks Unlimited for the project, which is underway, using funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), popularly known as stimulus funds.  ‘This stimulus project restores our ability to raise the Wapanocca Lake water level,’ said refuge manager Bill Peterson.  Ducks Unlimited will replace refuge water control structures and divert water from one ditch into the lake.  ‘These ARRA funds are being used to address the longstanding backlog of management needs on national wildlife refuges,’ said Dr. Scott C. Yaich, Director of Conservation Operations for Ducks Unlimited.  ‘In addition, this project puts people to work and directly benefits the local economy, just as ARRA intended.  As in all Ducks Unlimited projects, our organization is committed to using local workers and companies as much as possible.’  Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge, located 20 miles northwest of Memphis, Tenn., was established in 1961 to provide migratory bird habitat.  Because of its strategic location in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway and the diverse habitat, the refuge is a prime waterfowl wintering area and a major neotropical migratory bird breeding and stopover site.” [Arkansas Times, 7/29/10]

 

The Arkansas Energy Office has announced that Recovery Act funded grants will be made available to locally-based businesses that want to continue to innovate and grow the state’s green energy sector.  “The Arkansas Energy Office, a division of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, announced Tuesday a $2.7 million grant program to support the improvement and continued growth of ‘green’ technology companies in Arkansas.  The funds are provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and administered by the Arkansas Energy Office.   The Green Technology Grant Program targets companies that make or sell products that contribute to renewable energy production or storage, energy efficiency, or programs that result in an overall reduction in energy use… ‘Arkansas is quickly developing a reputation as a great location for green and sustainable companies,’ said Maria Haley, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.  ‘This grant program will be a strong tool in the development and growth of these companies as the 'green' sector continues to grow in our state.” [Arkansas Business, 7/27/10]

 

Secretary Salazar Announced that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded Arkansas with funds to build and upgrade visitor facilities at Arkansas’ National Wildlife Refuge.  “Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded a $2.8 million contract for three new visitor contact stations and a new maintenance building at central Arkansas national wildlife refuges under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).   K-Con Inc., a small business in Charleston, S.C., will design and build the four new buildings under a contract for $2,815,365.  ‘These new buildings will provide wonderful new facilities to enhance the public’s enjoyment at three of our refuges, including new opportunities for environmental education for school groups,’ Salazar said.  ‘The construction project will also be an economic boost and provide much needed jobs for the local community.’” [The Arkansas Times, 7/22/10]

 

Over 40 cities across Arkansas will receive Recovery Act funding to upgrade buildings and increase energy efficiency.  “More than 40 Arkansas cities and counties will split $6.2 million in stimulus grants aimed at increasing energy efficiency and developing renewable energy projects, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission announced Wednesday.  The funds, awarded through the U.S. Department of Energy and made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, are being distributed by the Arkansas Energy Office.  ‘Our communities often see their resources stretched thin while trying to provide essential services to their citizens,’ Gov. Mike Beebe said in a news release.  ‘These grants will help our local governments operate at lower costs through energy efficiency, a benefit that will continue long after these funds are spent.’  More than 80 percent of the grants will be used to retrofit existing buildings with energy efficient features like advanced heating and cooling equipment, new lighting and insulation. Other funds will go toward installing solar hot water devices, geothermal units and wind turbines…” [Arkansas Gazette, 6/30/10]

 

150 summer jobs created in Western Arkansas with use of Recovery Act funds.  “Western Arkansas Employment Development Agency has about 150 more summer jobs to offer to qualified youths this season than it normally has.  Tia Pinkston, WAEDA program planner, said Monday that the agency recently received $448,769 in additional funding from a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families grant. Most of those funds came from unspent money in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act or federal economic stimulus money.  About $4.88 million in TANF money will flow to the different Workforce Investment Areas in Arkansas this summer. Through regular Workforce Investment Act funds, the agency usually supports about 70 summer jobs. This summer it still will fund those positions plus the 150. …. The jobs will be spread across the WAEDA area of Crawford, Franklin, Logan, Polk, Scott and Sebastian counties based on population size and density.  Many of the jobs are concentrated in Crawford and Sebastian counties for those reasons, Pinkston said…” [The Times Recorder, 5/25/10]

 

Leftover Recovery Act funds enabled Western Arkansas Employment Development Agency to provide 150 more summer jobs to youths than usual.  “The Western Arkansas Employment Development Agency normally has 70 summer jobs for youngsters and young adults, but this year, thanks to unspent federal bailout money, the agency has those 70 jobs and another 150 to boot.   Youths have to be between the ages of 14 and 21 and be from low-income families.  The jobs will be distributed across the agency's six counties – Crawford, Franklin, Logan, Polk, Scott and Sebastian... Tia Pinkston, program planner, told the Times Record that her agency had received close to a half-million dollars in additional funding from a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families grant, much of which came from money that was left over from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act or federal stimulus money… Not only will this open a lot of doors and provide summer fun-ding for lots of youths, but it also will be a boon to public entities and nonprofits in the area… ‘It's a godsend for them because they can't afford to hire help. They really appreciate the extra hands.’” [The Times Record, 5/27/10]

  

The Recovery Act funds 1,000 new computers at public libraries throughout Arizona.  “Nine libraries in Pinal County will receive new computers with money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The grant is part of ‘Broadband USA: Connecting America's Communities,’ which will put more than 1,000 new public access computers at 84 libraries throughout Arizona.  The 165 desktops and laptops for Pinal County libraries were also made possible with help from the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records.  The computers will help with skill development, job searches and training. Pinal County was given a total of $158,400 in federal money.  The Pinal County Board of Supervisors also authorized a matching contribution of $39,600 and an additional $1,333 in administrative support.  ‘This project is an investment toward the future prosperity of the county,’ said Pinal County Library Director Denise Keller.  ‘Our residents will have access to the latest technology to help them in job searches, online training opportunities, distance learning programs, research and more.  It's a proven fact that when the economy starts sliding, library usage goes up.  We will be equipping people with the tools they need to succeed as the economy starts recovering.’  The project will expand the availability of computers in the Florence, Mammoth, Apache Junction, Maricopa, Kearny, Eloy, San Manuel, Arizona City and Coolidge public libraries.  When passed by President Barack Obama, the ARRA specifically emphasized opportunities to extend the reach of modern technology and broadband access to enable economic recovery.” [ABC 10 News, 6/1/10]

  

Military contracts funded by the Recovery Act will create more than 25 high-tech engineering jobs in Fayetteville.  “More than 25 high-tech engineering jobs will be created at a Fayetteville business thanks to a pair of U.S. Army contracts funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  Arkansas Power Electronics International, which is headquartered at the Arkansas Research Technology Park at the University of Arkansas, will use the stimulus money to add jobs over the next three years, according to a news release issued Thursday morning.  One contract worth $1.2 million will fund an effort to develop high efficiency light-weight power modules for electronics systems in hybrid and electrical ground combat vehicles.  Such devices process and deliver power to on-board computer, electronics, communications and weapons systems inside the vehicle. The other contract, worth $1.8 million, funds the delivery of state-of-the-art silicon carbide power modules into electronic test systems for a new generation of tanks.  Though the work is aimed at military vehicles, improvements may ultimately be used in consumer hybrid and electrical cars and trucks, officials said.” [Arkansas Democrat Gazette, 6/10/10]

 

Arkansas public schools will use Recovery Act money to improve facilities, upgrade technology, fund after-school programs and support special education.  “Members of Arkansas’ congressional delegation announced today that Arkansas public schools and colleges will receive nearly $120 million in federal stimulus money.  The state Department of Education and Department of Higher Education will distribute the $119.8 million to school districts, colleges and universities throughout the state, with $112.5 million of the grant designated for K-12 education.  Public schools will use the money to improve facilities, upgrade technology, fund after-school programs and support special education.  Public colleges and universities will use their share of the money for campus facility improvements.  Arkansas was awarded the grant under the U.S. Department of Education’s State Fiscal Stabilization Fund program.  The grant is the final installment of SFSF funding for Arkansas.” [Arkansas News, 5/12/10]

 

Recovery Act funding will help clean up a wetlands site in Little Rock that will house an education pavilion and a boardwalk.  “At the moment, the backwater west of the Clinton Presidential Library isn't much to look at - trash lines a sandbar, and alligator grass has taken over much of the water.  But by the end of the year, Little Rock should be wrapping up an effort to transform the backwater from a plastic foam ‘jungle’ into a series of wetlands that are meant to educate people about the environment and how trash tossed thoughtlessly blocks away can eventually end up in the Arkansas River… Kumpuris and other city officials used the noon program to announce that work on the $2 million wetlands park will start May 17… The $353,000 in federal stimulus dollars awarded Little Rock by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission last year capped off fundraising for the project… The public will have a chance to get up close and personal with a part of the 9-acre park.  Plans call for a boardwalk and education pavilion along the lower portion of the wetlands. The city will install a litter trap underneath a spillway that carries storm water - and whatever trash that washes into storm drains on downtown streets - into the wetlands and eventually the river.” [Arkansas Democrat and Gazette, 5/4/10]

 

With a $7.5 million Recovery Act grant, the Franklin-Sebastian Public Water Authority will install a water system to meet customers’ needs for 60 years.  “Governor Mike Beebe presented a check for a $7.5 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant to representatives of the Franklin-Sebastian Public Water Authority during a ceremony before a large crowd at Lavaca City Hall last Tuesday.  The stimulus money to help fund improvements for the Charleston, Lavaca and River South water supplies, is doing what the stimulus money is supposed to do, Gov. Beebe said… When completed, the system will provide water bought from Fort Smith to water users in Lavaca, Charleston and customers of the River South Rural Water Association.  Smith said the system will solve problems of drought and insufficient water capacity that have plagued the area in recent years.  The project is projected to meet the water needs of customers for the next 60 years.” [Charleston Express, 4/14/10]

 

Recovery Act grant funds the Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program to extend pain-management services to 500 residents.  “Arkansas lawmakers said a $400,000 grant will go to the Arkansas Department of Health on Wednesday, through the Recovery Act.  U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor and U.S. Representatives Marion Berry (AR-01), Vic Snyder (AR-02) and Mike Ross (AR-04) announced that the Arkansas Department of Health will receive $400,000 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expand its capacity to deliver the Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP), which offers workshops that help individuals with chronic health problems learn how to manage their health.  The Recovery Act funds will allow CDSMP to extend its services to 500 additional participants statewide.  CDSMP offers workshops led by trained leaders who discuss techniques to deal with pain, fatigue and other health problems. The workshops also teach how to use appropriate exercise, nutrition, and medication to help manage health… The Chronic Disease Self Management funds are part of HHS's Communities Putting Prevention to Work Initiative, which is funded by the Recovery Act and aims to promote evidence-based prevention strategies in health care across the country.” [Today’s THV, 3/31/10]

 

With $3.4 million in Recovery Act funds, Mid-South Community College will create an aviation mechanics program to train residents for aviation jobs.  “Mid-South Community College wants to plug East Arkansans into good-paying jobs tending the aircraft that support a $28.6-billion-per-year chunk of the area economy.  Officials announced Tuesday that the West Memphis school will create an aviation mechanics training program from the ground up, with assistance from FedEx Express and $3.4 million in federal stimulus money… The Department of Labor awarded Mid-South nearly $3.4 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money to establish the program.  Fenter said officials weren't sure when it would be up and running because details must be coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration… Fenter credited members of the Arkansas congressional delegation and Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Memphis, with helping Mid-South land the training program… Officials said the West Memphis program, designed to be replicated in other cities, would respond to a growing market in aviation maintenance.  Younger workers will be needed to replace older ones who retire as the field grows from 122,000 to 135,000 jobs by 2016, said Dr. Gibson ‘Sunny’ Morris, executive director of the Arkansas Delta Workforce Innovations in Regional Economic Development initiative at Mid-South.” [Commercial Appeal, 3/10/10]

 

Recovery Act helps Fort Smith Housing Authority finance a home construction project to build 8 new homes for handicapped tenants.  “The Fort Smith Housing Authority passed resolutions Thursday to aid in the financing of a new home construction project and to change some rules governing rental housing… To facilitate the financing for the construction of eight new homes for sale to low-income buyers, the authority voted unanimously to authorize the executive director to encumber $329,314 in Section 8 reserve funds… Once built, the homes will be sold by the authority at about $90,000 to $100,000 to qualified buyers. Those sales prices are at or just a little above their cost of construction, he said… The HUD Little Rock field office also recently congratulated the authority for using $807,459 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds it received by the allotted times.  It is using those federal stimulus funds to complete the construction of eight housing units in four duplexes designed for handicapped tenants.” [Times Record, 2/26/10]

 

Arkansas town uses Recovery Act funds to purchase a new tornado siren as well as additional equipment for the fire and police departments.  “Bradley, Ark., has been awarded $73,000 in federal funds for a new tornado siren and volunteer fire department and police department equipment.  U.S. Rep. Mike Ross, D-Ark., will present plaques to Bradley Mayor J.C. Williams ‘recognizing the federal investments’ at 2:45 p.m. to Monday at City Hall.  The grants were allocated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Program and the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009, commonly known as the stimulus package.” [Texarkana Gazette, 2/8/10]

 

Recovery Act funding brings music and green improvements to Norfork schools.  “Fifth-grader Hannah Baker might not have been able to play the flute in the Norfork band if the school hadn't received stimulus dollars from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).  With dollars intended to increase educational opportunities for students, Norfork Superintendent Mike Seay bought band instruments so any student who is interested in music can participate in band.  That wasn't all.  With $332,000 of federal funds, distributed through the Arkansas Department of Education, Seay and the Norfork School Board have replaced ceiling and floor tiles, installed 12 new heating and air-conditioning units, bought a special education bus, upgraded technology and improved equipment in every classroom, renovated the high-school counselor's office, started roof repairs, ordered an all-campus surveillance system and bought musical instruments.” [Baxter Bulletin, 1/27/10]

 

Arkansas Department of Transportation has assigned Recovery Act grants to 102 projects, funding highway repaving and construction.  “More than three-fourths of federal stimulus money allocated to Arkansas for transportation projects has been committed, the state Highway Commission was told Wednesday.  A report on the stimulus money by Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department fiscal officials was provided to commission members at the panel's monthly meeting.  According to that report, $351.5 million was allotted to Arkansas from federal funding authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act approved by Congress in February.  Highway commissioners were told that, of the state's total, $267.5 million has been assigned to 102 projects.  The report said $84 million of the federal stimulus money remains to be committed.  The 102 projects for which stimulus money has been assigned involve mostly state highway construction or repaving. However, 15 traffic-signal installations, eight county road projects and four undertakings by Metroplan, the central Arkansas planning agency, are included.  The federal law requires all the state's transportation-stimulus money to be committed by March 2.  The unassigned funds are expected to go to 14 projects, including one county road project, an additional Metroplan effort and two West Memphis-Marion Metropolitan Planning Organization projects.” [Baxter Bulletin, 1/21/10]

 

Recovery Act grant will buy new computers for Conway adult education center.  “The Conway Adult Education Center (CAEC) was recently awarded a grant of up to $40,000 by the Central Arkansas Community Action Program of Central Arkansas (CAPCA) and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (AARA).  CAEC will receive these funds to provide scholarships to dislocated workers for computer and career skills training.  Eligibility requirements are based on income from the applicant’s past month income.  Grant funds will also be used to purchase computers with the latest technology and software.  Students will have the opportunity to learn the most up-to-date computer and employability skills.  Certified teachers will lead all instruction.  There are a limited number of scholarships and classroom seating available.” [The Cabin, 1/19/10]

 

Wind industry company Nordex is set to receive Recovery Act-funded tax credits.  “The dust hasn't settled at the Nordex site since the company broke ground last year.  With construction right on schedule, there's more good news for the company.  Nordex is set to receive 22 million dollars in tax credits.  ‘The federal government recognizes the major players in the industry.  Nordex is, and this now is confirmation,’ said Vice President of Production, Joe Brenner.  It's part of 2.3 billion dollars in clean energy manufacturing tax credits through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Arkansas is one of 43 states receiving money.  ‘It shows a major commitment from the federal government to the wind industry, and to Arkansas as a whole and for wind manufacturing jobs,’ said Brenner.  Brenner says the money will allow them to re-invest in the business.  It's good news for the state and the local economy. [KAIT, 1/11/10]

 

A wind turbine facility is being built in Jonesboro with the help of Recovery Act tax credits; will bring in 700 jobs.  “The White House says Nordex USA Inc. will get $22 million in tax credits to spur wind manufacturing at its facility under construction at Jonesboro.  President Barack Obama announced the release of some $2.3 billion in clean-energy manufacturing tax credits through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The president said 183 projects in 43 states are to receive tax credits to help create “tens of thousands of high-quality, clean energy jobs.”  Arkansas is slated to receive more than $30 million for wind manufacturing. Nordex, founded in Germany in 1985, announced in late 2008 that it would build a wind turbine factory in Jonesboro, bringing in 700 jobs.  Construction began last year and is expected to finish this year.” [Jonesboro Sun, 1/10/10]

 

Recovery Act package will help North Arkansas Regional Medical Center convert to more efficient electronic records system.  “North Arkansas Regional Medical Center has made another step toward a complete conversion from old-fashioned paper to electronic medical records – a step made with patient safety in mind, and one that hospital officials hope will be bankrolled by federal stimulus money… The federal government’s stimulus package, passed early this year, includes financial incentives for hospitals that convert from paper to computerized medical records, or EMR. NARMC’s latest step toward EMR involves implementation of two major new systems:  bar code scanning for medication verification, and electronic documentation by the nursing staff and support services.  ‘The familiar bar-code scanning system used at your local grocery store has become the latest technology being adopted by hospitals to improve patient safety,’ Diane Roberts, the hospital’s VP-Patient Care Services, said Monday.  ‘Scanning devices are now being used at the bedside to help ensure patients receive the proper medication.” [Harrison Daily Times, 12/2/09]

 

Norfolk used Recovery Act funds for new construction and upgrades on school buildings.  “The district began last year a $1.5 million project to build a new media center and two new classrooms for the high school and a new multipurpose building and two new classrooms for the elementary school.  [Superintendent Mike] Seay said the district has used about 65 percent of $532,000 in federal economic stimulus funds to upgrade heating and air-conditioning systems district-wide and to replace aging roofs, lighting systems and flooring.  The biggest project still ahead for stimulus funding is $114,000 in construction to repurpose about 4,500 square feet in the second level of the district's gymnasium.  The project will bring new heating and air-conditioning systems to that area of the gym, elevator access that complies with Americans with Disability Act guidelines and staging for band, physical education and drama classes.” [Baxter Bulletin, 11/23/09]

 

[Doug] Arkansas will use Recovery Act funds to map broadband access and to help expand broadband coverage.  “The Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)… awarded Connect Arkansas roughly $1.6 million for broadband data collection and mapping activities over a two-year period, and almost $500,000 for broadband planning activities over a 5-year period for the state… C. Sam Walls III, with the Arkansas Capital Corp., said the federal funds will help complete what has been an almost 2-year program to create a broadband map of Arkansas… Walls said an added benefit will be to provide Arkansans an independent map of which telecom providers cover what areas and with what speeds.  ‘You create, ultimately, a map to help consumers to get online,’ Walls explained... The State Broadband Data and Development Grant Program is a matching grant program that implements the joint purposes of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Broadband Data Improvement Act (BDIA).” [The City Wire, 10/26/09]

 

Thirteen Arkansas cities and counties won Recovery Act grants for local infrastructure projects expected to create a combined 169 jobs.  “Thirteen small Arkansas cities and counties have won economic-recovery grants to fix or expand local infrastructure, the state's recovery office announced Thursday.  Project monitors estimate that the stimulus-funded work, from making energy-saving changes to the Searcy County Civic Center to repairing a street in Lake Village, will create 169 jobs.  ‘Those are projected jobs,’ said Dianne Norman with the East Arkansas Planning and Development District.” [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 7/24/09]

 

Recovery Act will fund taxiway rehabilitation at two Arkansas airports.   “U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says the Jonesboro Airport and Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport at Highfill will get federal stimulus money to carry out projects.  A news release from LaHood's office said the Northwest Arkansas airport will get $821,000 to build a taxiway that will also serve as an alternate landing surface during reconstruction of the main runway.  At Jonesboro, $338,000 in stimulus money will be used to rehabilitate a taxiway, according to another release from LaHood's office.” [Associated Press, 10/19/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to send the Walnut Ridge Police Department two new police cruisers.  “The streets of Walnut Ridge will soon be a little safer, thanks to $60,000 in grant money being awarded for new police cruisers.  Mayor Shelia Rogers says this will ‘definitely’ help her city, as officers will have the latest technology available to patrol the streets.  Mayor Rogers says the money will be used to buy two new police cruisers… The money was awarded as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (stimulus) from the JAG program.” [KAIT 8, 10/12/09]

 

Recovery Act allocation will help fund renovation projects for the Clinton Presidential Center as an effort to bolster tourism and economic development in central Arkansas.  “A historic bridge at Bill Clinton's presidential center in Little Rock is slated to get $2.5 million of federal stimulus money from Arkansas's share of the funds... Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe decided to spend about $3.5 million on renovations to Arkansas's medical-rehabilitation facilities and $2.5 million to revamp the Rock Island Railroad Bridge, which spans the Arkansas River between North Little Rock and the William J. Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock.  Members of the Arkansas congressional delegation sought an $8 million legislative earmark for the bridge this year, without success… Mr. Stodola, along with the mayor of North Little Rock, says the foundation committed to overhauling the bridge, though both mayors add that the project since has been revised.  The foundation says it made only a pledge to provide $4 million toward the plan, rather than an open-ended deal to finish it at any cost.  ‘We have committed to securing and identifying the remaining funds’ from other public or private sources, foundation spokesman Jordan Johnson said.  He said the project will bolster tourism and economic development in central Arkansas.” [Wall Street Journal, 09/30/09]

 

Arkadelphia School Board will use Recovery Act allocation on improving the Gifted and Talented program, purchasing fine arts equipment, and creating jobs for Peake High School renovation.  “Superintendent Donnie Whitten gave the annual report to the public, unveiling a proposal on how the district should spend funds received from federal stimulus money... a ‘historic, one-time investment’ which funneled $100 billion to public school districts across the nation… Those proposals for receiving the funds include the school’s Gifted and Talented program rewarding professional development incentives to certified staff replacing/upgrading the security system at AHS and funding phases 3 and 4 of renovating historic Peake High School.  The district received $433,405 for Title I funding proposals.  Those proposals include supporting homeless students throughout the district and math/science lab at Peake.” [Daily Siftings Herald, 9/24/09]

 

Arkansas will use Recovery Act funds to pay for energy efficiency programs.  “U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu says Arkansas will receive more than $9.5 million in federal stimulus funding to implement programs that promote energy efficiency and conservation.  Arkansas' funding is part of $354 million awarded to 22 states... Arkansas will use its funding to implement programs that lower energy use, reduce carbon pollution and create jobs.  The agency says 60 percent of Arkansas’ funding will be distributed to cities and counties that were not eligible for direct funding from the Department of Energy.” [Associated Press, 9/14/09]

 

Arkansas will receive Recovery Act funds aimed at increasing the number of children adopted from foster care by Hiring 153 new case workers and other staff.  “Arkansas will receive $822,078 for increasing the number of children adopted from foster care, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced today… Arkansas received the funding for increasing its adoption rate of foster care children every year since 2002, according to DHHS.  The incentive program was created as part of the federal Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997.  The federal funding, plus $4.5 million in federal stimulus funds and $4 million from savings incurred by a lower federal matching funds rate, are to be used to speed up implementation of measures taken to improve the state’s child welfare system.  The improvements include the hiring of 153 new case workers and other staff to handle foster care cases and staff training, among other things.” [Arkansas News, 9/14/09]

 

A Recovery Act-funded grant will enable researchers at the University of Arkansas and other colleges in the state to build and support cyber-infrastructure and to train students and workers.  “Arkansas scientists, students and information-technology workers will benefit from a new $3.3 million grant from the National Science Foundation.  The award, made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, will enable researchers at the University of Arkansas and other colleges and universities in the state to build and support cyberinfrastructure and to train students and workers in information-technology systems, tools and services.  The grant, titled CI-TRAIN, or Cyberinfrastructure for Transformational Scientific Discovery in Arkansas and West Virginia, is part of a broader award to create a research consortium between the two states, which have researchers specializing in high-performance computing, visualization and modeling.  At the University of Arkansas specifically, the federal funding will enhance supercomputing resources at the Arkansas High Performance Computing Center, which supports research in computational science, nano- and ferroelectric materials, multiscale visualization and many other research projects that require massive data storage.” [Arkansas Business, 9/3/09]  

 

Homeless students across Arkansas will receive assistance from programs funded by Recovery Act grants.  “Fourteen Arkansas school districts have received American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants to help students who are homeless.  The grants (outlined below) range from $33,000 to $68,000 and will serve around 2,700 students.  ‘We are definitely under-identifying and under-serving this population,’ said Dr. Diana Julian, Interim Commissioner of the Arkansas Department of Education.  These grants will be used for professional development as well as any supplies needed for program development to enable districts to better identify and serve homeless students. Local liaisons and district staff will be trained about homeless education issues and requirements. While these grants are for one-year, the Arkansas Department of Education says school districts will be able to apply again next year for similar grants from the state's regular McKinney-Vento funds, which are designated for serving homeless students.” [KARK Channel 4 News, 8/24/09]  

 

Recovery Act will fund work at Ozark, Ouachita and St. Francis National Forests.  “Nearly $5.2 million in federal stimulus money will pay for six projects to be carried out in Arkansas' national forests, officials announced Tuesday.  The U.S. Forest Service said the money is part of $94 million allocated to national forests in 36 states.  Arkansas has three national forests – the Ozark National Forest in north-central and northwest Arkansas, the Ouachita National Forest in west-central Arkansas, and the St. Francis National Forest in the Mississippi Delta region of east Arkansas.” [Associated Press, 8/18/09] 

 

Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia will use Recovery Act funds to install new energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems.  “All Arkansas colleges and universities are getting stimulus funds and it has them seeing green.  Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia will receive $2.5 million, SAU President David Rankin confirmed.  ‘We will be using it for several general categories,’ Rankin said last week.  Rankin said the funds will be used to update energy management systems.  ‘It’s a great way for us to get some energy replaced that’s out of date,’ he said about replacing air-conditioning and heating units.” [Texarkana Gazette, 8/17/09] 

 

University of Arkansas Community College at hope will use Recovery Act funds to renovate one of its buildings.  “The University of Arkansas Community College at Hope will receive $500,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (stimulus) funds Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe announced on Tuesday.  Beebe announced the distribution of $42 million from the federal stimulus package to the state’s colleges and universities.  Arkansas colleges, universities, the prison system and other state buildings are receiving more than $69 million in federal stimulus money for renovations and energy efficient upgrades, according to Beebe’s announcement.  UACCH Chancellor Chris Thomason was grateful for the award.  ‘We are excited about the ARRA $500,000 reward from the governor.  It will provide funding for a much-needed project on the UACCH campus,’ Thomason said… Thomason said UACCH plans to use the funds for renovation of the old science and technology center, one of the original Red River Vo-Tech structures on the campus, into a success and economic partnership center.” [Hope Star, 8/12/09]

 

NorthWest Arkansas Community College and the University Of Arkansas applied Recovery Act funds to energy conservation and efficiency policies.  “NorthWest Arkansas Community College and the University of Arkansas both plan to turn federal stimulus money into energy savings.  The university received $4 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, while the community college will get $750,000, Gov. Mike Beebe's office announced Monday… The University will put the money toward a long-term, $218 million renovation program aimed at restoring older buildings on campus and updating lighting, heat and air systems, and other efficiency upgrades to many buildings on campus, said Don Pederson, vice chancellor for finance and administration.  The stimulus money will help get some projects started sooner than expected, Pederson said.  Some of the more expensive projects were back-burnered until a recently implemented facilities fee generates additional money, and the new infusion helps move those timelines forward, he said.  The community college's money will be used to upgrade lights, temperature control systems, windows and heating inside Burns Hall, said Jim Hall, legislative liaison for the college.” [Springdale Morning News, 8/10/09]

 

Recovery Act revenue will help replace or significantly modify 13 Arkansas Bridges, creating contracting jobs and improving public safety.  “At least 13 bridges on Arkansas roads will be replaced or significantly modified with the use of federal stimulus money, according to state highway data.  Of those, seven are considered structurally deficient or functionally obsolete.  A 14th bridge that will be built with money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will replace a low-water crossing that, technically, doesn’t qualify as a bridge and, therefore, isn’t subject to inspection by the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department. Still, ‘I would call it deficient because it’s a low-water crossing and not able to be used all of the time,’ said Randy Ort, an agency spokesman.” [Arkansas Democrat Gazette, 8/5/09]

 

80 young people in Mountain Home now employed by Arkansas Workforce Center due to Recovery Act; center official lauded increase in participants.  “As part of the Arkansas Summer Youth Workforce program, Ethan Barnes, Megan Cain, Dalton Davis and Anthony King, all 17, Wade Staton and Chase Loosey, 16, and Lindsay Teegarden, 15, are each putting in 200 hours this summer helping to move library books, furniture and school supplies, and helping custodians clean every surface… The program, previously part of the Jobs Training Partnership Act and the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act, received a boost in funding this year from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, according to Tina Hopkins, employment and training adviser at the Arkansas Workforce Center in Mountain Home.  ‘In previous years, we've had 30 to 40 participants in Baxter and Marion counties,’ Hopkins said.  ‘This year, because of stimulus dollars, we increased the eligibility age to 24, and we have 80 participants.’  Hopkins, 29, asks each applicant what job they would like if they could have any job at all.  Two girls expressed interest in hair.  Hopkins found one of the girls a job at a beauty school.  The other is working in a salon.” [Baxter Bulletin, 7/22/09]

 

Recovery Act job preservation funds allocated to the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas Repertory Theatre.  “The Arkansas Repertory Theatre in Little Rock and the design program at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville will each receive a $50,000 economic stimulus grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.  The grants from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, according to the National Endowment for the Arts, are ‘to support the preservation of jobs that are threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn.’  The current round of grants, totaling $29.78 million, will go to 631 arts groups in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and several territories.  They're part of $50 million in federal aid allotted to the agency from President Barack Obama's economic stimulus package.  Grant criteria included artistic excellence, a previous National Endowment for the Arts funding history, regional impact and an ability to carry out the project, according to a news release.” [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 7/15/09]

 

Fayetteville-region school systems benefitted from several Recovery Act allocations.  “Springdale and Fayetteville schools are approved for $21.5 million in federal stimulus funding, which is 76.5 percent of the $28.1 million total for schools in the county.  A large portion of the money for the two big schools will be used to build or improve facilities, officials said.  Springdale is approved for more than $13 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, commonly known as the federal stimulus bill.  Fayetteville is set to receive $8.5 million.  Lincoln Public School should get almost $1.5 million, the most of the smaller districts.  Prairie Grove comes next at $1.1 million and Farmington is approved for $1.08 million. [Northwest Arkansas Times, 7/12/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used for fifty-eight road construction projects.  “Fifty-eight Arkansas road construction projects totaling $105 million have been awarded contracts with federal stimulus money, the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department said Wednesday.  The projects total 180 miles, Frank Vozel, the department's deputy director and chief engineer, told the Arkansas Highway Commission at its regular meeting.” [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 7/9/09]

 

Department of Energy awarded Recovery Act money to fund two green-collar job-training centers in Arkansas.  “Arkansas has been awarded nearly $3 million by the U.S. Department of Energy to establish two Building Training Centers of Excellence… ‘We probably won't hear anything official until mid-August,’ said Karen Minkel, director of strategic planning and internal consulting for the Fayetteville Planning Division. ‘But everything looks very positive.’” [Fayetteville Morning News, 7/8/09]

 

Owl Creek Elementary School implemented summer reading program to preempt “summer slide” using Recovery Act dollars.  “School is out for the summer, and students are bound to participate in more recreational activities.  That doesn't mean learning opportunities in Fayetteville come to an end.  Community and school sponsored efforts are under way to counterattack the so-called summer slide.  The theory behind the slide, also called slump, is that without the regular learning environment provided at school, students' academic skills diminish during the summer.” [Northwest Arkansas Times, 6/29/09]

 

Recovery Act funds disbursed to Ozark Regional Transit, purchasing buses, vans, and shelters.  “Springdale-based Ozark Regional Transit received $1.5 million in federal money Friday for the purchase of buses, vans and shelters.  The award was announced as part of a larger, $16.6 million statewide package for seven transit agencies serving rural routes and their associations.” [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 6/13/09]

 

More than 200 Arkansas youths will work at summer jobs funded by Recovery Act.  “This is an excellent opportunity because it will put our young people to work which will give them some experience in the work place, but it is also an opportunity for the older ones, the seniors headed to college and those already in college, to make a decent wage and have some money set aside when they go back or have money for clothes and in some cases allow them to put much needed food on the table for their families.” [Forrest City Times-Herald, 6/9/09]

 

Recovery Act will fund green projects in Arkansas.  Projects include diesel emission reduction, support for wind power projects, weatherizing homes. [KTHV Channel 11 News, 6/1/09]

 

Arkansas is slated to receive $28 million in Recovery Act money for job retraining programs.  “Jose Hernandez was laid off from his job at Technical Machining Services in Rogers in February – he quickly determined he wanted to leave behind the physical labor, long hours and relatively low wages of the manufacturing field.  But clerical work, education and even food service jobs require basic computer skills that he hadn't acquired.  So Hernandez started computer classes at Elizabeth Schaeuffler's Rogers home.” [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 6/1/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will allow the Arkansas youth jobs program to raise the age limit from 18 to 24, allowing an expansion from 100 to 300 in the school-age program.  “It's a real big boost in helping our youth find employment.” [Arkansas Democrat Gazette, 5/24/09]

 

Rural communities across Arkansas will receive over $1 million Recovery Act funds to buy equipment.  Purchases will include police cars, fire trucks, and other needed safety equipment. [Arkansas Business, 5/19/09]

 

Alameda’s Fire Department has received a Recovery Act Grant to hire 6 firefighters as part of the Department Of Homeland Security’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Program.  “On July 19, the federal government awarded the Alameda Fire Department $1.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds to hire firefighters.  The department plans to use the money to hire six firefighters for a two-year period.  The money is coming from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program.  ‘In light of the current economic constraints on the city, the Alameda Fire Department is pleased to receive this grant which will allow us to continue high quality service and relieve some of the economic burden on the city of Alameda,’ stated Fire Chief Dave Kapler.   In addition to paying for the new firefighters, the grant should also help the city save money currently paid in overtime.  AFD will hire firefighters from the city's reduction-in-force list and the California Fire Foundation's displaced firefighter list, made up of firefighters laid-off from other fire departments.” [Alameda Sun, 7/30/10]

 

Lpath, a San Diego-Based pharmaceutical corporation, has received a Recovery Act funded grant from the National Eye Institute to support its phase II clinical trials into new treatments for Exudative AMD.  “Lpath, Inc. was awarded a $3.0 million grant by the National Eye Institute's BRDG-SPAN Program to support Phase II clinical development of Lpath's iSONEP(TM) in treating exudative (or wet) AMD and possibly other ocular disorders… Lpath's ImmuneY2(TM) drug-discovery engine has the unique ability to generate therapeutic antibodies that bind to and inhibit bioactive lipids that contribute to diseases like wet AMD.   The NEI's BRDG-SPAN Program was created to provide grants of up to $3 million to accelerate the transition from the development to commercialization of innovative technologies that improve human health, advance the mission of NIH, and create significant economic stimulus.” [Market Watch, 7/30/10] 

 

Yolo County is celebrating the completion of a Recovery Act funded Solar Panel Project at its County Correctional Facility.   “In a brief ceremony that took place nearly six weeks ahead of schedule, members of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors ‘flipped the switch’ on a state-of-the-art solar power system located behind the Monroe Detention Center.  ‘This new solar project is yet another step Yolo County has taken as a local government in recent years to reduce its carbon footprint,’ said board Chairwoman Helen Thomson.  … With its new solar array, Yolo County's justice center will be generating 80 percent of its own energy needs, completely zeroing out the PG&E meters for the Monroe Detention Center, the Leinberger Memorial Center and the adjacent juvenile detention facility.  As an added benefit, the system combines SunPower's ‘305 module,’ which is billed as being the most efficient solar panel on the market, with their ‘ground tracker’ system, allowing the panels to follow the sun's motion throughout the day.  With the addition of the tracking system, the solar array is capable of capturing 25 percent more sunlight that traditional fixed panels. ….  In order to finance the project, Yolo County relied upon various clean energy bonds made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, as well as a 15-tear, 1 percent interest loan from the California Energy Commission.  As a result of the funding procured, Yolo County incurred no out-of-pocket expenses throughout the project.” [Woodland Daily Democrat, 7/28/10] 

 

Fairfield is benefiting from Recovery Act Bonds that will allow Frank-Lin Distillers to set up a state-of-the-art facility in the city generating jobs and making the company more competitive.  “ “The city of Fairfield worked through the California Enterprise Development Authority (CEDA) to issue a $22 million tax-exempt Recovery Zone Facility Bond.   Proceeds of this bond were used to finance the construction of a $34 million, 288,000-square foot building on 15 acres in the Tolenas Industrial Park.  Frank-Lin was the first completed Recovery Zone Facility Bond project in California to go through the state reallocation process.    The Recovery Zone Facility Bonds are made available under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed into law by President Obama in February 2009 in response to the economic crisis.  Fairfield was allocated $1.4 million in Recovery Zone Facility Bonds…  A brand new commercial facility is brought to Fairfield; creating jobs and helping to improve the operations of an important California business… Additional tax-exempt bonds in the amount of approximately $2 million have been issued through the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program (SCIP) to finance impact fees and public improvements.” [PR Newswire, 7/27/10] 

 

Terra-Gen Power broke ground on what will be the world’s largest wind power center thanks in part to a combination of private funding and public funds made possible by the Recovery Act. “Backed by energy investment group ArcLight Capital, Terra-Gen hopes that the complex – using turbines from Denmark's Vestas  and General Electric Co – will supply electricity to 1.1 million people starting 2011 and create more than 3,000 jobs.   The project, for which Terra-Gen has secured $1.6 billion in financing, underscores how wind energy is gaining traction as a viable power alternative.   The company said last year it had secured a 1,550 megawatt power purchase agreement with Southern California Edison, supplier to much of the nation's most populous state.   Wind power had been one of the fastest growing sources of power generation before the financial crisis, which squeezed funding.  But the U.S. Treasury Department helped bankroll some 150 renewable energy projects with a portion of the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, doling out at least $1.5 billion in grants for wind initiatives.” [Reuters News Service, 7/27/10] 

 

Santa Clara County Social Services is utilizing Federal Recovery Act money to fund its summer nutrition program that will continue to feed over 4,000 low-income students.  “The County of Santa Clara Social Services Agency is leveraging federal stimulus funding by implementing a Summer Nutrition program that will feed over 4,000 low-income children this summer, when schools are closed and feeding sites are limited.  Concerned about the limited number of summer feeding sites in the County, the Safety Net Committee, chaired by the County Social Services Agency and Second Harvest Food Bank, invited the community to join the County-sponsored and newly formed Safety Net Summer Nutrition Collaborative.  Together, interested members designed an innovative program that combines healthy nutritional meals with a wide variety of camp and educational programs.  The County estimates that it will spend over $5,346,000 in federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families TANF Emergency Contingency Funds, provided through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds to subsidize the Summer Nutrition Program… The YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, Mexican Heritage Corporation, First 5 Santa Clara County, City of San Jose's Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services, and Revolution Foods, have teamed up to staff over 40 feeding sites throughout the county for the 8-10 week program, which ends on August 20. Eligible low-income children, ages 0-18, will be able to participate in the camps, receive a healthy breakfast, lunch, and two snacks every day.” [Public CEO News, 7/27/10]

 

Construction set to begin on a Recovery Act funded infrastructure project in Orange County is expected to create 5,000 jobs.  “Construction gets under way soon on one of the largest construction projects in Orange County in recent years.   The $328-million West County Connectors project will directly connect car-pool lanes on the 405, 605, and the 22 freeway.  The project crosses the cities of Garden Grove, Westminster, Seal Beach, Los Alamitos and the community of Rossmoor. Although construction starts in August, lane closures are not scheduled until the end of the year.   Several officials offered comments at a ground-breaking ceremony last month.   ‘Today is about jobs...high paying jobs created as a result of this public investment,’ said Will Kempton, chief executive officer of the Orange County Transportation Authority.   OCTA spokesman Joel Zlotnik said the project is expected to create more than 5,000 jobs.   ‘It's a big day for this region,’ said Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez.  ‘This project in fact does represent everything that president Obama envisioned when he signed off on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act... a lot of what we're looking for is to create jobs.’   The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is contributing $50 million to the project.” [Orange County Register, 7/26/10]

 

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell announced that over 1,000 local educational agencies will be receiving Recovery Act Funded Enhancing Education Through Technology grants to upgrade existing high-tech infrastructure in classrooms across the state. “State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell announced Friday that the California Department of Education is awarding $34 million in federal Enhancing Education Through Technology funding to 1,062 local educational agencies in the state.… These funds will help schools integrate technology into their classrooms and train teachers to use these tools more effectively to enhance their students' learning experience.’  CDE was awarded $71 million in EETT funding by the U.S. Department of Education last August.  The funds are part of the federal stimulus funding provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and will be disbursed in two ways.  EETT is designed to improve student achievement through the use of instructional technologies in elementary and secondary schools.  The goal is to help all students become technologically literate by the end of the eighth grade.” [The Woodland Daily Democrat, 7/18/10]

 

UC San Diego has received a Recovery Act funded grant from the Department Of Commerce to allow researchers to study new techniques for building seismically-sound structures and methods as to how to safeguard existing buildings.  “As earthquake preparedness continues to be at the forefront of research and conversations around the globe, engineers at UC San Diego have received a boost in funding to help protect buildings and people from potential seismic disasters.   Benson Shing, a structural engineering professor at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering, will use a nearly $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)  to study and test performance-based seismic design methods and tools for reinforced masonry shear-wall structures.… Earlier this year, the NSIT awarded a total of $34.12 million in grants for measurement science and engineering research. The NIST Measurement Science and Engineering Research Grants Program, made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will fund 27 projects at higher-education, commercial, and nonprofit organizations in 18 states.” [The Cutting Edge, 7/16/10]

 

LAX is receiving Recovery Act funding to install full body imaging scanners, augmenting airport security and decreasing time spent in TSA security lines.  “Federal and city officials are expected to announce Tuesday that 24 full-body imaging scanners manufactured by Torrance-based Rapiscan Systems Inc. will be spread across all nine terminals at LAX.  The move is part of the Department of Homeland Security's plan to roll out 450 body scanning devices at 11 airport across the country by the end of this year, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.   ‘These 24 new machines can only give us added comfort to our sense of security at LAX,’ said Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl, whose district includes the nation's third-busiest airport… Rapiscan's Secure 1000 scanners, known as ‘backscatter machines,’ bounce low-level X-rays off airline passengers to peek underneath clothes as a secondary security screening measure… .‘The Secure 1000 is one of the most proven technologies available to help detect serious non-metallic threats concealed on a person's body, thereby reducing the risk of a catastrophic terrorist attack,’ a Rapiscan spokeswoman said in a written statement.” [The Daily Breeze, 7/19/10] 

 

50 local children in Humboldt County have been able to participate in summer mentoring and advising programs thanks to a grant from the Recovery Act to the North Coast Big Brothers and Sisters Organization. “Summer for approximately 50 local children is a little brighter this year, thanks to funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.   Almost $50,000 in federal stimulus funds secured by the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services will fund mentoring activities and programs offered through North Coast Big Brothers and Big Sisters.    Some low-income kids will receive financial assistance to attend educational camps.  Others will be able to participate in mentored recreational activities their families would not otherwise be able to afford.  Additional family support services, including parenting skills classes, will also be funded.    ‘These activities are about something more than giving children and youth something fun to do this summer,’ said DHHS Director Phillip R. Crandall.  ‘They also teach social skills, increase self-esteem and strengthen families that don’t have a lot of supports.’    North Coast Big Brothers and Sisters is an affiliate of the 105-year-old national mentoring organization that serves some 300,000 children and youth nationwide each year.” [Redwood Times, 7/21/10]

 

Long Beach area youth have benefited from Recovery Act funding of summer jobs, which have already put approximately 1,000 young people to work with 325 area employers.  “Long Beach. Merchants and business owners needing some summer help can still take advantage of the Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network's Summer Youth Employment Training Program.  The network has funding to fill an additional 400 positions this summer.   The Summer Youth Employment program is made possible through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds and provides salaries and workers' comp for 1,500 eligible youth living in the Network's service areas of Lomita, Long Beach, Signal Hill and Torrance.  The youth can work approximately 180 hours during the summer months.   Through the program, 325 area employers are already receiving no cost assistance from approximately 1,000 youths.” [Long Beach Press-Telegraph, 7/22/10] 

 

Governor Schwarzenegger praised Calera Corporation of Los Gatos for its recently awarded Recovery Act funded grant to transform co2 into livestock feed and building materials.   “Calera Corporation is developing a process that directly mineralizes CO2 in flue gas to carbonates that can be converted into useful construction materials.  An existing CO2 absorption facility for the project is operational at Moss Landing, Calif., for capture and mineralization.  The project team will complete the detailed design, construction, and operation of a building material production system that at smaller scales has produced carbonate-containing aggregates suitable as construction fill or partial feedstock for use at cement production facilities … Governor Schwarzenegger created the California Recovery Task Force to track the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding coming into the state; work with President Barack Obama's administration; help cities, counties, non-profits, and others access the available funding; ensure that the funding funneled through the state is spent efficiently and effectively; and maintain a Web site (www.recovery.ca.gov) that is frequently and thoroughly updated for Californians to be able to track the stimulus dollars.” [Pine Tree Net, 7/22/10]

 

A Recovery Act Grant to Santa Barbara County’s Summer Youth Employment Program has put 350 young people to work this summer, giving them solid work experience and helping local business get through the tough economy.  “Backed by a $1.9 million federal stimulus grant, Santa Barbara County’s Summer Youth Employment Program has put 350 young adults to work countywide at nonprofits, government agencies and local businesses.   The program, which began in May and runs through September, employs about 75 young adults at some 30 work sites in the Lompoc area, according to AlRay Grossi, the program’s Lompoc area representative.   Young adults, ages 14 to 24, are earning $8 per hour for up to  40 hours under the terms of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant.  About 75 percent of them are working full-time, Grossi said.   The young people work as custodians, office help, in restaurants, gardening, parks cleanup and maintenance.  Some work at preschools, supervising youth activities, arts and crafts, math and spelling…  ‘Our youth in the community are doing something positive.  They are learning job skills, but more importantly, they are learning life skills,’ Grossi said.  ‘I think that’s what the community gets out of it.’” [Lompoc Record, 7/22/10]

 

Recovery Act Stimulus-Funded Public Housing Renovations Have Led To Over 80 Construction Hires In San Bernardino County.  “Public housing officials have hired about 80 construction workers to transform the hundreds of apartments near Medical Center Drive into a more welcoming environment.  …. The Housing Authority of San Bernardino County is spending roughly $10 million for exterior renovations and energy-efficiency upgrades throughout the 296 apartment units of the agency's Medical Center complex.  Housing officials have pooled financing from various sources, including about $3.4 million authorized under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Housing Authority spokeswoman Ana Gamiz said.  ‘Most of our efforts actually, are to increase the curb appeal.  Not just for residents but the broader neighborhood,’ said Gus Joslin, deputy executive director of the Housing Authority's real estate development office.  ‘They're very much institutional and always have been, and we're trying to make it look more like a neighborhood,’ Joslin continued.  The Medical Center apartments, known in the neighborhood as simply ‘The Projects,’ date back to the Truman Era. The first tenants moved in circa 1951 to buildings that still reflect that ‘institutional’ aesthetic that Joslin described… The project also includes new paint, windows, security screens, water and sewer laterals, improved air-cooling systems and new roofing.” [Contra Costa Times, 6/28/10]

 

Secretary Salazar Announced A Recovery Act Stimulus-Funded Wildlife Restoration Project That Aims To Alleviate The Stress That Has Been Placed On California’s Salmon Population.  “Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that the Bureau of Reclamation has awarded a $6,839,497.50 contract under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 for Phase 1B of the Battle Creek Salmon and Steelhead Restoration Project to construct a tailrace connector and penstock bypass at the Inskip Powerhouse, part of Pacific Gas and Electric Company's Battle Creek Hydroelectric Project.  The contract includes building a small bypass at Coleman Diversion Dam on the South Fork of Battle Creek.  The project is in Shasta and Tehama counties near Manton, Calif.   The restoration project will restore Chinook salmon and steelhead habitat along 48 miles of Battle Creek and its tributaries while maintaining continued production of hydroelectric power.  Habitat restoration and enhancement will enable safe passage, growth and recovery of Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon, Sacramento River winter-run Chinook salmon, and Central Valley steelhead. All of the fish are listed as threatened or endangered.  Construction is expected to begin in September.’ We look forward to the implementation of this phase of the major restoration effort,’ said Secretary Salazar.  ‘The project demonstrates that through cooperation, federal and state agencies, private industry and nonprofit organizations can restore fish species, while allowing continued production of renewable energy.’ The Battle Creek Restoration Project is a cooperative effort among the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, California Department of Fish and Game, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, The Nature Conservancy, Battle Creek Watershed Conservancy, and other agencies…Under ARRA, Interior is making an investment in conserving America's timeless treasures – our stunning natural landscapes, our monuments to liberty, the icons of our culture and heritage – while helping American families and their communities prosper again.” [Yuba Net, 6/29/10]

 

San Diego State University Announced That It Has Received A New Record Amount Of Funding For Research Because Of The Recovery Act, Creating New Jobs And Providing Resources To Innovate The Economy.  “With help from Congress, San Diego State University grabbed a record $150 million for research in the past year, getting money to study matters as diverse as the mercurial nature of earthquakes to the evolution of cancer.  SDSU will report today that the university broke its previous record by more than $10 million, partly by obtaining millions of dollars in competitive grants funded by the federal stimulus package.  American universities were given at least $10 billion for research through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act approved by Congress, says the Chronicle of Higher Education.  Tom Scott, SDSU's vice president for research, said last month that, ‘We still would have raised more than $130 million without the stimulus, and we’ve been deepening our partnership with UC San Diego, which has been vital to our growth.’  SDSU decided years ago to focus heavily on research as well as teaching, making it the only California State University campus to do so on a large and consistent scale.  Most CSU schools pull in less than $10 million for research each year.  …” [Sign On San Diego, 6/30/10]

 

The San Bernardino County Workforce Program And CleanEdison Have Announced That They Will Be Launching A New Free Green Jobs Program For Dislocated Workers With Funding From The Recovery Act.  “The San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board and CleanEdison will launch a free, green job-training program for dislocated workers.  Using grant money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, this program is designed to stimulate the regional economy and upgrade workers' job skills to facilitate their reentry into the workforce.  ‘This program will provide crucial training to traditionally under-served community members, as well as retrain incumbent workers seeking to upgrade their skills,’ said Sandy Harmsen, Director of Workforce Development in San Bernardino County.  ‘This initiative will help develop a skilled green workforce and provide career advancement and job security to workers, while helping to meet demand in the growing energy efficiency sector.’  Scheduled to begin in mid-July, students who complete the training will become BPI Certified Building Analysts, qualified to perform energy audits to determine how much energy a home is wasting without proper insulation or duct sealing.  Energy audits can help homeowners save as much as 30-40 percent on their monthly utility bills by utilizing the proper retrofits. The combination of classroom practicum and hands-on field training will enable training participants to quickly transition into the expanding green job market.   CleanEdison offers state-of-the-art classes in a variety of green job disciplines, from Energy Audit Training to LEED Exam Prep.  …” [Market Wire, 6/30/10]

 

Los Angeles, Fresno and San Diego Have Been Approved To Receive Recovery Act Stimulus-Funded Energy Modernization Grants That Aim To Increase Efficiency And Conservation In Single And Multi-Family Homes. “The California Energy Commission yesterday approved nearly $12.9 million in three separate awards to improve residential energy use with efficiency upgrades and increase green workforce training opportunities.  Funding for the projects comes from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act).  The energy efficiency programs from the County of Los Angeles ($8 million), City of Fresno ($1.9 million) and County of San Diego ($3 million) are being funded from Recovery Act Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grants to implement comprehensive single and multi-family energy retrofit programs.  These local governments are also partnering with various community colleges, local economic development programs and building industry organizations to bring job training opportunities and clean jobs to the three regions.  ‘We are pleased that local governments are eager to use Recovery Act funds to help their residents save money on energy costs,’ said Rick Rice, Director of the California Recovery Task Force.  ‘These innovative and comprehensive retrofit programs will allow California to continue its global leadership in energy efficiency efforts and provide a much-needed boost to our economy.’  The combined programs expect to provide energy upgrades to 10,800 single family homes and 2,000 multi-family buildings.  Estimated annual energy savings are anticipated to exceed 20,000 mega-watt hours of electricity, or approximately enough to power 2,300 homes for a year, and more than 16,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually.  The three programs are also focusing on creating or retaining more than 2,000 jobs while providing aggressive training programs to help expand California’s new clean energy workforce.  Combined, the three programs leverage nearly $200 million in private and public funding.  The California Energy Commission received $49.6 million in Recovery Act funds for direct Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grants for small cities and counties.” [Imperial Valley News, 7/1/10]

 

California-Based Occam Received Recovery Act Stimulus Contract To Supply Broadband Access To Rural Parts of Kansas, Creating Over 350 New Jobs.  “In one of the biggest stimulus grants to filter down to a tri-county business, Goleta-based Occam Networks will supply equipment for a $101 million project to bring broadband access to rural Western Kansas.  Occam will provide networking equipment to Kansas-based Rural Telephone’s Nex-Tech, which will connect 23,000 households and businesses across 4,600 square miles.  ‘In terms of fiber to the home, this is the largest project to our knowledge in round one [of the stimulus],’ said Juan Vela, director of solutions marketing and strategy for Occam…In March, federal officials unveiled the National Broadband Plan, a roadmap for wiring some of the remotest parts of the country…Vela said it was fitting that Occam’s first broadband stimulus contract came from Rural Telephone, because it’s worked with the company for nearly a decade…The $101 million project will create jobs both in Santa Barbara and Kansas.  Vela said it could create engineering and support positions at Occam.  Rural Telephone will take on 17 full-time employees to run the upgraded services and expects to create 350 to 400 contracting jobs.” [Pacific Coast Business Times, 6/21/10]

  

The Products Of A California-Based Fiber Optics Corporation, Glimmerglass, Will Now Be Included In Approved Recovery Act Internet Equipment, Allowing The Company To Be Included In The Extension Of Internet Technology To Rural America.  “Glimmerglass Networks, the leading supplier of intelligent optical layer management solutions, today announced that its product family of Intelligent Optical Systems has passed the ‘Buy American Requirement’ set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is included in the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) List of Materials.  The Glimmerglass Intelligent Optical Systems 100, 500, and 600 gained RUS acceptance and are included in the RUS List of Materials.  The products are now acceptable for use in telecommunications systems of RUS borrowers and can be deployed under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).   ‘As a US-based company with all of our solutions manufactured in America, we are pleased to be readily available via the RUS listing to assist telecommunication service providers serve rural community broadband requirements with our advanced optical layer management solutions,’ said Robert Lundy, CEO of Glimmerglass Networks.  ‘With a growing majority of the world's Internet, data, voice and video traffic flowing over fiber optic networks, there is a significant opportunity across our rural landscape to ensure American communities are not left behind. Glimmerglass intelligent optical systems enable telecommunications service providers to remotely create, monitor and reconfigure optical paths in milliseconds, dramatically reducing their operating expenses, accelerating deployment of new services, and improving system reliability.’   The USDA's Rural Utilities Service provides programs to finance rural America's telecommunications infrastructure.  The Broadband Loan program provides loans to fund the costs of constructing, improving and acquiring facilities to provide broadband service to eligible rural communities. The Community Connect Grant program provides financial assistance to eligible applicants that will provide broadband in unserved areas to provide public safety services and foster economic growth.  The American Recover and Reinvestment Act appropriated $2.5 billion to RUS to extend broadband networks to unserved and underserved communities nationwide.” [Market Watch, 6/23/10]  

  

Recovery Act Investment Into Affordable Housing Is Expected To Generate 155 Permanent Jobs And Over 389 Construction Jobs Statewide, While Offering Senior Citizens And Economically Disadvantaged Residents New Homes.  “Federal, state and local agencies, and the American Recovery Reinvestment Act (ARRA), will contribute to funding over $112.4 million in development costs for the construction of eight communities, which, according to the National Association of Home Builders, will lead to the creation of 155 permanent new jobs and over 389 full-time construction jobs.  Cities will benefit from these developments through much needed revenue from fees and permits, while local businesses are expected to grow from the purchase of building materials and the significant spending power of the new residents.  The eight projects, built by AMCAL Multi-Housing, Inc., span Los Angeles, Orange, Fresno and Kern counties.   They include: Andalucia, a 75-unit family community in Los Angeles  Mosaic, a 56-unit mixed-use community in Los Angeles  Montecito, a 98-unit senior community in Panorama City  Mirandela, a 34-unit senior community in Rancho Palos Verdes  Royale, a 36-unit family community in Westminster  Santa Fe, a 56-unit mixed use community in Bakersfield  Cordova, an 81-unit family community in Selma  Summer Hill, a 50-unit family community in Fresno  Over $84.9 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits was awarded to AMCAL to build these communities.   Funding was provided by Bank of America, Chase, Boston Capital, California Bank & Trust, California Community Reinvestment Corp., Citibank, Enterprise Community Investment, Hudson Housing Capital, U.S. Bank and Union Bank of California.   Additional funding from federal ARRA stimulus, State of California Proposition 1C Infill Infrastructure Grant, County of Fresno, Los Angeles Housing Department, Los Angeles Community Redevelopment Agency (RDA), City of Rancho Palos Verdes RDA, City of Westminster RDA, City of Bakersfield RDA, City of Selma RDA, and City of Fresno RDA allowed AMCAL and its non-profit partners to build these communities.” [PR Newswire, 6/23/10]

  

Governor Schwarzenegger Announced That California Will Be Receiving An Infusion Of Recovery Act Funding To Turnaround Underperforming Schools.  “…  As part of the Race to the Top initiative, Governor Schwarzenegger in January 2010 signed historic education reform to help change the culture of education in California by empowering parents, embracing accountability and transforming the state’s lowest-achieving schools.  This bold action plan requires schools identified as persistently lowest-achieving to implement one of the four turnaround strategies.  The more than $416 million in SIG funding approved today will be made available to support these schools in implementing the turnaround strategies to help ensure every student has equal access to quality education and success.” [Tribune Weekly Chronicle, 6/24/10]

  

The City Of Corning Has Received A Recovery Act Stimulus Grant To Build A Modern Well, Improving Both Access To And Quality Of Local Water.  “The city of Corning will be receiving a share of the funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in the form of a $613,000 loan from the US Department of Agriculture.   The money, issues through USDA's Rural Development Water and Environmental Program, will be used to drill a new water well at Estil Clark Park.   ‘The problems facing Corning today are common to many rural towns throughout the state and nation,’ said USDA Rural Development State Director Glenda Humiston in a release.   The loan, which Humiston announced Wednesday, is a reflection of the Obama Administrations efforts to rebuild the nation's infrastructure and shows the USDA's commitment to ensuring that communities have safe drinking water, the release said.  …   The new 400-foot-deep well replaces three others removed from service and ensures the city can meet requirements of peak use and supply enough water for the community.   Funds will be used to install a pump, about 1,400 feet of pipeline and a 480-square-foot well house.” [Red Bluff Daily News, 6/24/10]

 

Recovery Act Stimulus Money Used To Upgrade Central Coast Roads. “Caltrans announced Wednesday that work has begun on a highway project that will resurface 11 miles of the 101 in San Luis Obispo County.  The 41.2 million dollar project is being funded mostly by stimulus money from the President's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  ( 37.2 million stimulus money, with the remainder being funded by the state ).  The section being repaved runs from Santa Margarita to Atascadero. There will also be work done to widen bridges and resurface on and off ramps in that same stretch.  Caltrans District 5 Director Rich Krumholz said, ‘This is a great project for the local economy.  It's bringing a lot of jobs to the city of Atascadero, the County of San Luis Obispo, and the Central Coast....And that's a big part of the stimulus program, jobs creation.’” [Ksby.com, 5/19/10]

  

Central Valley Highways Get Major Investment From Federal Recovery Act Stimulus.  “The California Transportation Commission allocated $83 million to the Central Valley on Thursday to help fund road improvements.  The money given to the Valley was a part of $668 million allocated to 79 transportation projects statewide. Funds for the projects came from Proposition 1B and from state and federal transportation accounts, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The Valley's funds from Proposition 1B will help widen Highway 99 from four lanes to six in and near Kingsburg in Fresno and Tulare counties.  The project will also build four new bridges, modify 14 bridges, restore 40 lane-miles of pavement and construct 5,000 linear feet of soundwalls.” [Fresno Bee, 5/20/10]

  

Recovery Act Funding Allows California Road Improvements Strengthen State And Create Jobs.  “The California Transportation Commission on Thursday allocated $668 million to 79 projects across the state, including $92 million to resurface 84 miles of Interstate 5 between Florin Road and the Sacramento-San Joaquin County line.  The $668 million allocation included $152 million for nine projects from Proposition 1B, a $19.9 billion transportation bond approved by voters in 2006.  The remaining $516 million came from assorted state and federal transportation funding, including $2.9 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act….” [Sacramento Business Journal, 5/20/10]

  

Recovery Act Funds Go To Increase Broadband Accessibility In Economically Disadvantages Areas. “A nonprofit organization overseen by employees of Google Inc., Intel Corp. and other technology firms has won the right to distribute more than $7 million in federal stimulus funding aimed at expanding Internet access in California, and is now seeking millions more. The California Emerging Technology Fund is applying for more than $12 million in additional stimulus funds to increase broadband access--giving a Google employee a hand in a noble pursuit that also dovetails with the company's broader mission, and influence over a quasipublic entity doling out government grants. The CETF was created in 2005 by the state's Public Utilities Commission, as a condition of its approval of the mergers between AT&T Inc. and SBC Communications, and between Verizon Communications Inc. and MCI. AT&T and Verizon are together providing $60 million over five years to fund the entity's mission of expanding broadband…”  [Total Telecom, 5/24/10]

  

Local Government In California Uses Recovery Act Stimulus Funds To Green Government Buildings and Facilities.  “Close to $500,000 in federal stimulus dollars for energy-efficiency projects could be headed to the Coachella Valley — as soon as the Riverside County Board of Supervisors votes to accept them.  The federal dollars are part of about $6.6 million in Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant funds the board is expected to approve at its meeting on Tuesday in Riverside… Besides promoting energy-efficiency, the federal funds are also intended to boost local economies, county officials said.  ‘These funds are being put to good use and will create local jobs for our communities,’ said Tom Freeman, spokesman for the county Economic Development Agency.” [The Desert Sun, 5/24/10]

  

California Fishermen Receive Boon With Federal Recovery Act Investment Into Fish Passage Project. “The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's Mid-Pacific Region has awarded a $67 million contract under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for Phase II of the Red Bluff Fish Passage Improvement Project, the agency reported. With this latest ARRA award, Reclamation is initiating the final construction phase of the project. The $67 million award was issued to Balfour Beatty Infrastructure of Fairfield, Calif., for constructing a 1,118-foot-long fish screen, building a pumping station, installing nine pumps and motors and building an electrical switchyard. Construction of the project is expected to begin in summer 2010, with completion anticipated in 2012. Once completed, the facility will provide for improved fish passage through the existing Red Bluff Diversion Dam. The new diversion facility will be located on the Sacramento River about a mile upstream of the dam and two miles southeast of Red Bluff, Calif. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Mike Connor broke ground at the Red Bluff Diversion Dam in March 2010 to begin the Fish Passage Improvement Project under previously announced ARRA funding. The project will be completed in multi-phases by Reclamation, the Tehama-Colusa Canal Authority, and the State of California. The total Project cost is estimated at $230 million and is being paid for partially by the $109 million in ARRA money.” [HydroWorld.com, 5/24/10]

 

 President Visits Solyndra In Silicon Valley. Plant Will Create 1000 Green-tech Jobs When Completed And Is Currently Providing 3000 Construction Jobs.  “President Barack Obama marked Fremont as a capital of the burgeoning clean-energy industry — a sector that won't lead to the kind of environmental disaster that's wreaking havoc in the Gulf of Mexico — while taking an economic stimulus victory lap Wednesday. Obama toured Solyndra Inc., a solar-panel company that last year received a $535 million loan guarantee through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to build a huge manufacturing plant down the road from its existing facility.  It was in that incomplete plant — which eventually will employ about 1,000 and whose construction has provided work to about 3,000 — that he spoke to a few hundred employees, construction workers and local dignitaries.  The plant shows that the promise of new energy isn't science fiction but ‘is happening right now.  The future is here,’ Obama said. The president's visit seems to be part of a full-court press on the economic recovery. Elsewhere Wednesday, Democrats were touting a new analysis by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office showing that the Recovery Act in 2010's first quarter has raised the nation's gross domestic product, lowered the unemployment rate, and increased the number of people employed by more than 1.2 million.  …” [San Jose Mercury News, 5/27/10]

 

 Recovery Act Stimulus Funds Provide Weatherization Capabilities In Riverside, Allowing Residents To Take Advantage Of Both Energy Efficiency Gains And Energy Conservation Education.  “In February of 2009, Congress passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 with the goals of increasing economic activity, creating new job opportunities, and developing greater levels of accountability and transparency in government spending.  As a result, ARRA has helped to stimulate growth within the U.S. and has helped to improve the lives of many Americans, including citizens within Riverside County.  On Wednesday, May 19th, the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County (CAP Riverside) conducted weatherization demonstrations for two residential properties along Hillside Avenue. Under the Recovery Act, CAP Riverside has received funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which weatherizes the homes of qualified Riverside residents at no charge.  Low-income families can apply for and qualify to weatherize their home or apartment through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which aims to makes residences more energy efficient to permanently reduce energy bills. …” [Black Voice News, 5/27/10]

  

Report On High Speed Rail Indicates That The Project, Utilizing A Combination Of Federal Recovery Act And State Funds, Could Create 600,000 Jobs Construction Jobs And 450,000 Permanent Jobs Upon Completion. “…. The bullet-train system would send passenger rail cars speeding at up to 220 mph between Southern and Northern California, with a key stop in downtown Bakersfield.  Proponents say the project will create more than 600,000 new construction-related jobs while the system is being built over several years, and as many as 450,000 permanent jobs statewide at build-out.  Once it's completed, if it's completed, travel time between Bakersfield and Los Angeles would be 54 minutes; Bakersfield to Sacramento would take one hour and 29 minutes -- and thousands of vehicles that might otherwise be polluting the air would still be parked in driveways.  We asked members of The Californian's Sounding Board about Howle's contentions regarding the ‘vague’ and ‘optimistic’ plan to pay for the 800-mile rail system.  Do people believe the high-speed rail system will become a reality for California?  Will it be supported by riders and be a boom to the economy?  Do the big-picture benefits, including temporary and permanent jobs, cleaner air and ease of travel, override the auditor's concerns?  The responses: It will be great boon to our fading economy and a great convenience to all Californians as long as the high-speed rail authority can guarantee two things: One, that ticket costs are low enough to entice our car culture to leave freedom behind for the constrictions of the rail; and two, that the rail lines themselves are readily accessible to all parts of California. …” [Bakersfield.com, 5/27/10]

 

 President Obama Visited Solyndra Plant, Where Recovery Act Stimulus Projects Will Create 3000 Construction Jobs And 1000 Jobs For Plant Workers.   “…  Obama toured Solyndra Inc., a solar-panel company that last year received a $535 million loan guarantee through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to build a huge manufacturing plant down the road from its existing facility.  It was in that incomplete plant — which eventually will employ about 1,000 and whose construction has provided work to about 3,000 — that he spoke to a few hundred employees, construction workers and local dignitaries.   The plant shows that the promise of new energy isn't science fiction but ‘is happening right now.  The future is here,’ Obama said.   The president's visit seems to be part of a full-court press on the economic recovery.  Elsewhere Wednesday, Democrats were touting a new analysis by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office showing that the Recovery Act in 2010's first quarter has raised the nation's gross domestic product, lowered the unemployment rate, and increased the number of people employed by more than 1.2 million.   …” [Mercury News, 5/27/10]

  

Recovery Act Stimulus Investment At The University Of California Led To The Discovery Of Molecules That Strengthen The Effectiveness Of Vaccines. “Scientists at the University of California - Berkeley have found that molecular pumps in Listeria bacteria that expel antibiotics, which make the bug harder to kill with standard drugs, also expel small signaling molecules that stimulate a strong immune response in cells that they infect.  The discovery was reported in the May 28 issues of the journal Science and was funded in part by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health.  This finding of a new and highly immunogenic molecule being pumped out of bacteria, PhysOrg.com reports, suggests the possibility that vaccines using live or disabled bacteria to activate the immune system may be improved.  As a result of the new finding, vaccine-grade bacteria may be engineered to increase their production of the signaling molecule or the number of pumps. ‘We think this could translate directly into better vaccines,’ Daniel Portnoy, a UC - Berkeley professor of molecular and cell biology and of public health and associate faculty director of the campus's Center for Emerging and Neglected Diseases, told PhysOrg.com.  ‘We can certainly get Listeria bacteria to make more of this molecule; we already have a mutant that does that.’” [Vaccine News Daily, 6/1/10]

  

Recovery Act Stimulus Funds Used To Upgrade Firefighting Capabilities In Preparation For Fire Season.  “The county Fire Department will use a $100,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to outfit and equip a new fire engine at Station 121 in Yucca Valley.  The money will pay for hose, base equipment, personal protective equipment, breathing apparatus, extrication equipment, an Advanced Life Support heart monitor and a thermal imaging camera.  …. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said rural communities in 32 states will benefit from the grants and loans, provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Two of the engines in Yucca Valley are more than 20 years old and their age can make it difficult for firefighters to work efficiently, according to County Fire.  The new engine is being purchased using Yucca Valley Redevelopment Authority money.  ‘It’s imperative for the safety of our citizens that the equipment used to respond to fires in their communities is contemporary and not deteriorated or outdated,’ said San Bernardino County Fire Chief Pat A. Dennen.” [High Desert Star, 6/1/10]

  

Rural Tulare County Will Receive Recovery Act Grants To Renovate Their Local Boys And Girls Club And Develop A Community Health Clinic.  “USDA Rural Development State Director Glenda Humiston today announced that two Tulare County projects will be among 11 total projects in California, funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  A $200,000 grant will be used to renovate the Ivanhoe Boys & Girls Club, while a $50,000 grant to Tulare Local Health Care District will help develop a fixed health clinic site in Woodville.  Other projects throughout the statewill benefit libraries, police and fire departments, a food bank and other community facilities throughout rural California.” [The Business Journal, 6/2/10]

  

A Central Valley Wildlife Visitor Center Is Being Built With Recovery Act Stimulus Funds; Local Officials Expect The Flock Of Visitors To The New Center Will Benefit The Local Economy.  “Construction has started on a new administrative headquarters and visitor center for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s San Luis National Wildlife Refuge complex in Merced County.  The project is being funded with $7.2 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  ‘Although much work remains to improve our economy, especially in the San Joaquin Valley, this is another significant step in the right direction,’ says Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Merced. ‘The San Joaquin Valley… is in more need of help than any other region in the country.’   In addition to the Tule Elk herd, approximately 30 migratory bird species use the refuge habitat…Once completed, the new facility will be approximately 16,000 square feet and located on the southwest end of the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge…It is among the largest Fish and Wildlife Service projects being funded by the Recovery Act.  Los Banos city officials say an expected increase in visitors from the new center will also benefit the local economy.  According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Division of Economics, each visitor to the refuge from outside the region will spend an average of $62 locally and generate about $11 in tax revenue.” [Central Valley Business Times, 6/2/10]

  

Senator Boxer Tours Caldecott Tunnel Expansion, A Program Funded By The Recovery Act That Will Decongest Bay Area Traffic Woes And That Will Create 4,000 to 4,500 New Construction Jobs Over The Life Of the Project.  “Senator Barbara Boxer called a Bay Area stimulus project ‘perfect’ while trumpeting her work in job creation and transportation during a campaign stop at the Caldecott Tunnel in Orinda Thursday.  Boxer surveyed the site of the $420 million ‘fourth bore’ project, which will add a fourth entry point to relieve traffic around the often-congested tunnel connecting Alameda and Contra Costa counties via State Route 24.  The construction project received $197.5 million in federal funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… The construction is already showing the results of a combined federal and private investment in infrastructure improvement and job creation, according to Boxer, a three-term senator who is up for re-election this year.  The construction will create between 4,000 and 4,500 jobs, she said ‘This is the perfect project,’ said Boxer… Boxer emphasized the link between transportation—’A great country has to have great infrastructure’—and job creation—’We all know how important job creation is in California.’  Bringing thousands of new jobs and an improved commute simultaneously, the Caldecott Tunnel project ‘will make life better for Bay Area families,’ she said… The Department of Labor reported that 1,400 jobs were added in construction last month, Boxer said. More than 1 million jobs have been created or preserved nationwide, she said, and more than 100,000 in California.  That's stimulus money at work, she said. …” [The Bay Citizen, 6/3/10]

  

Central Valley Counties Have Been Awarded Recovery Act Stimulus Funds To Train Over 200 Individuals In Hybrid Technology, Developing The Local Labor Pool, Capabilities Of First Responders, And Infusing Federal Resources Into the Local Economy.  “This past month the North Central Counties Consortium (NCCC) was notified that it was one of five agencies awarded a grant to provide innovative employment and training services funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  The funding totaling $770,876 will be subcontracted to the NCCC One-Stops in Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Sutter and Yuba counties and to the Yuba Community College District (YCCD).  ‘NCCC is excited to serve as the catalyst to bring more federal resources to our region which will help stimulate the local economy, grow our workforce and provide the North Central Valley another opportunity to continue to be a leader in the alternative energy industry,’ said Francene Kennedy, executive director of the NCCC.  The funding will focus on training and job placement for low-income, unemployed, dislocated workers or under-skilled adults ages 18 and older who face challenges in regaining employment.  The projects funded under this grant will play a major role in the recovery and expansion of the local Yuba-Sutter economy and that of the greater North Central Valley Region of California.  Specifically, the Yuba College – NCCC Regional Automotive Technician and Hybrid Technology Project grant of $498,000 is in the alternative energy/fuels industry, and will help prepare and train individuals for the demand industry of automotive hybrid technicians. This collaborative effort has a twofold purpose: 1) to increase the region’s labor pool of qualified automotive technicians who will possess at least two ASE certifications along with knowledge of hybrid technologies and 2) to provide 1st responder Hybrid Electric Vehicle Safety Training for incumbent workers …” [Lake County News, 6/3/10]

  

Governor Schwarzenegger And Secretary Solis Announce Recovery Act Funds To Offset Closure of NUMNI Plant In Fremont California, Which Will Retrain Displaced Workers.  “Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today applauded that more than $19 million in Regional Federal National Emergency Grant (NEG) funds will be directed toward assisting more than 31,000 total workers from six counties (Alameda, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Santa Clara, Solano and Stanislaus) who have been affected by to the plant shutdown.  ‘Thanks to this much-needed Recovery Act funding, we can provide emergency assistance to those impacted by the NUMMI factory closure,’ said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.  ‘I thank Secretary Solis for expediting the application and the Department of Labor for granting the funds, which will help displaced workers transition to new opportunities.’ …. This grant will leverage Wagner-Peyser, TAA and local Workforce Investment Area resources to provide a variety of purposes: outreach, recruiting,  testing, assessment, transferable skills analysis, resume writing, job search workshops, job clubs, basic/remedial education, individual employment plans, career counseling, job placement, on-the-job training, classroom training, occupational or vocational skills training, marketing, in-depth supportive services, stress counseling, post placement follow-up, and other services as deemed necessary.” [Imperial Valley News, 6/7/10]

 

California will use over $120 million from the Recovery Act to fund local school districts.  “In continuing his commitment to protect education, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today directed the California Recovery Task Force to allocate more than $120 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) funding to local school districts from the federal State Fiscal Stabilization Fund (SFSF).  The 682 local education agencies that will receive funding have spent at least seventy-five percent of their original Recovery Act SFSF allocation and are in need of continued funds for both direct program support and teacher salaries. … In January 2010, the Governor submitted the state's application for the final 10 percent of the SFSF -$490 million in federal funding for California's schools and universities.  Governor Schwarzenegger created the California Recovery Task Force to track the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding coming into the state; work with President Barack Obama's administration; help cities, counties, non-profits, and others access the available funding; ensure that the funding funneled through the state is spent efficiently and effectively; and maintain a Web site (www.recovery.ca.gov) that is frequently and thoroughly updated for Californians to be able to track the stimulus dollars.”  [Imperial Valley News, 5/6/10]

 

The Department of Energy awarded $25 million in Recovery Act funds to Pacific Gas & Electric for the development of compressed air storage.  “The U.S. Department of Energy awarded Pacific Gas & Electric Co. a $25 million stimulus grant to develop compressed air storage for electricity.  The grant award was reported in the federal government's latest stimulus data, which shows approximately $1.4 billion in awards to 716 Bay Area businesses and agencies since the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act started pumping some $787 billion in federal money into the economy in early 2009 to wrest it from recession… Pacific Gas & Electric Co.'s compressed air storage plans are increasingly important as intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar connect to the electric grid, producing power regardless of when its needed.  Electricity is used to compress air when the power is produced and then released to turn turbines and create electricity when the power is needed. PG&E has said its compressed air storage project should be able to store electricity for up to 10 hours and be the equivalent of a 300 megawatt power plant — which could power about 90,000 average homes.”  [San Francisco Business Times, 5/6/10]

 

California State University San Marcos received Recovery Act funding for a program to train residents in health information technology.  “California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) Extended Learning was recently given a $50,000 grant award to support the development of a new Certificate in Health Information Technology (HIT). … Set to launch in January (Spring 2011) and with the goal of producing program graduates who can provide leadership in the evolution of HIT in San Diego County, CSUSM Extended Learning’s HIT Certificate program will differ slightly from other HIT programs in that it will provide students a balance of technology and management skills.  Program curricula will focus on developing an understanding of healthcare, IT domain knowledge, and an ability to manage organizational and cultural changes… Specializing in IT, Management Science, Management, Marketing, and Finance, the faculty will be joined in the development process by members from several major local hospitals and private healthcare organizations.  These healthcare industry leaders will also help to provide resources for internships and job placement for program participants. … Traditional lectures, online components, industry guest speakers, HIT vendor presentations, lab sessions, and short-term internships are just some of the learning methods that will be combined to create a unique experience.”  [CSUSM Press Release, 5/6/10]

 

200 low-income students will receive job training through the ‘bridges to success’ program that is funded by $500,000 from the Recovery Act.  “A $500,000 grant will allow 200 low-income West Contra Costa students to get employment training over the summer and academic help in the next school year.  The ‘Bridges to Success’ grant comes from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds through the state's Employment Development Department.  It is being matched with another $500,000 from local sources — $400,000 from the city of Richmond and Contra Costa County, and $100,000 from Chevron.  The funding is focused on low-income kids who are at risk for dropping out of school.  It will allow students to take classes such as resume writing, workshop training and management.  They also will get academic assessment related to jobs in the health, science and environmental professions, as well as green construction.”  [Contra Costa Times, 5/3/10]

 

Sacramento State University will use Recovery Act funding to research Sacramento’s smart grid system to reduce energy consumption.  “Sacramento State will receive $2 million a year from the California Energy Commission for research into Sacramento’s Smart Grid system, which seeks to reduce energy consumption in the region, said Emir Macari, dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science.  Macari said it is unknown yet how long the annual funds will last.  The funds, which were agreed upon on April 21, are in addition to the $905,348 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to develop a new training program for Sacramento’s Smart Grid system.  Macari said Sac State received the funds because it is the only university in the state that offers power engineering as a discipline and master’s program.  Sac State also houses the only Smart Grid Center in California… SMUD will install many of the ‘smart meters’ across Sacramento to facilitate the use of the Smart Grid technology.  The Smart Grid would work in people’s homes to show them which appliances are best to run at what times, and how much energy they are using.  This would allow consumers to know the best time to turn on their appliances to be more energy efficient and to reduce their bills.  When consumers know how much energy they are using and at what times to use their appliances, they will reduce their overall energy consumption, Macari said.”  [The State Hornet, 4/28/10]

 

Community health clinics retained workers and expanded coverage to area residents thanks to at least $3.1 million from the Recovery Act.  “It’s been a rough few years for community health clinics, as state budget cuts have sliced grants and reimbursement dollars for poor, uninsured patients.  But they’ve gotten some big-time federal help in the form of stimulus funds.  At least $3.1 million of American Recovery and Investment Act funds has gone to clinics in Redding, Round Mountain, Shingletown and Mad River.  The money’s been spent to keep caregivers on staff, add programs and for building expansions and make repairs.  To hear the clinics’ CEOs tell it, the funds were all that kept them from laying off workers and cutting back treatment to patients.  ‘This was huge,’ said Cathy Larsen, executive director of Southern Trinity Health Services. ‘What it did was not only allow us to keep workers working, it allowed to add another dental chair, which allowed us to actually serve more patients.’  Aside from employee costs, the $415,095 that Mad River clinic received went to revamp the old U.S. Forest Service barracks that housed its dental clinic, and a new energy-efficient heating and air-conditioning system was installed.  The funds also went to buy and install the clinic’s first electronic medical records system, Larsen said…”  [The Record Searchlight, 4/27/10]

 

The Recovery Act will provide funding for upgrades to Folsom Dam’s spillways and gates to reduce the risk of damage from earthquakes.  “Kiewet Pacific Co., a Concord company, won a $16.6 million contract to make seismic upgrades to Folsom Dam’s spillways and gates.  The award, part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, was announced Wednesday by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.  The stimulus money will go to improving the dam gates and piers, installing pier anchors and bracing, replacing gate arms and other earthquake safety improvements.  ‘These Recovery funds will accelerate the improvements necessary to reduce the risk and protect the people of Sacramento and vicinity in the event of an earthquake or other dangers to their safety,’ Salazar said in a news release.  ‘The funds are a good example of the president’s program to jumpstart the economy while addressing safety, environmental and other challenges so the country can thrive in the 21st century.”  [Sacramento Business Journal, 4/21/10]

  

Tehama County Sherriff’s Department will use Recovery Act funds to pay for overtime, equipment, training, and drug enforcement agency vehicles.  “The Tehama County Sheriff's Office will receive $371,404 from three sources to help in the effort to fight drug-related crime.  On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors approved three requests from Sheriff Clay Parker for his department to receive state and federal funds.  The largest of the three procurements is for $286,232 from the California Emergency Management Agency Anti-Drug Abuse Enforcement Team Recovery Act Program, according to the Sheriff's Department.  Those funds will be used by the Tehama Interagency Drug Enforcement agency from 2010 to 2012 for overtime, equipment, training and vehicles, for the five different law enforcement departments that compose the team, said Parker… Main efforts of the agency is to reduce the supply of illegal narcotics, and arrest those responsible for narcotic sales and distribution in the county, said Parker.”  [Corning Observer, 4/20/10]

  

Recovery Act funds to California universities will improve earthquake monitoring networks to track changes in earthquake-prone regions.  “The U.S. Geological Survey has awarded $2.7 million in cooperative agreements under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to the University of California, Berkeley; Central Washington University; University of California, San Diego; and UNAVCO, Inc., to improve networks that detect minute changes in the earth’s crust caused by faulting in earthquake-prone regions.  Monitoring these small changes (undetectable except through the methods of advanced geodesy) is an integral part of assessing the likely rate of large earthquakes.  For optimal performance in real time, many existing monitoring stations need modern sensors and improved communication systems.  Funds provided through six cooperative agreements will improve monitoring capabilities by replacing obsolete sensors that may be more than 10 years old and by upgrading communications so that real-time data streams are more reliable or possible for the first time.  These funds will create or preserve jobs relating to contract work and equipment manufacturing.”  [USGS Press Release, 4/20/10]

  

Recovery Act funds will help ready Lake Mendocino campsites, monitor salmon in the Russian River watershed, and replace aging leach fields.  “About $13 million in stimulus money awarded to Lake Mendocino is expected to total $11.75 million by the time seven new contracts are awarded, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stated.  Due to rules for the use of Stimulus or Recovery Act money, the Corps has until September to get additional projects out to bid at Lake Mendocino… Included in a recent round of projects to receive stimulus money from the Army Corps is the University of California, Davis the Army Corps announced recently.  UC Davis receives $466,170 to monitor steelhead and coho salmon, juvenile survival and adult patterns in the Russian River watershed, the Army Corps stated.  North Star Construction and Engineering out of Yuba City receives $435,000 to replace aging leach fields that serve comfort stations' at Lake Mendocino's Bushay campground.  The Belmont-based MIE Inc., receives about $3.45 million to ready Lake Mendocino campsites for 12 comfort stations and the connections that will be needed for them, the Army Corps stated.”  [The Ukiah Daily Journal, 4/20/10]

  

The Recovery Act will fund a portion of the installation costs of one of the largest solar arrays in California.  “The Tehama County Planning Commission Thursday morning unanimously approved what may be the largest array of solar panels in the state.  Producing between 15 and 20 megawatts, the project would be larger than any completed project in California, officials said.  Larger projects have been planned elsewhere in the state, but none have reached development.  In the case of the Solar Panel, Inc. project, work could begin as early as this year or 2011, Senior Project Manager Frances Knight told the commission.  At its peak, the project could employ as many as 150 people, but the finished station would be mostly unmanned.  The panels, standing about 10 feet high, would continually rotate to pick up the sun's rays.  Operating with about 17 percent efficiency, they would route their energy through a nearby transformer and to Pacific Gas and Electric… The project owes its existence in part to the stimulus bill, as American Reinvestment and Recovery Act bonds will pay for part of the project's installation, Knight said.”  [Red Bluff Daily News, 4/19/10]

  

Construction has begun an a Recovery Act-funded park-and-ride facility in Napa County that will have an 81 car capacity.  “A park-and-ride lot funded primarily with federal economic stimulus dollars broke ground Wednesday morning on Solano Avenue, just north of Redwood Road.  Transportation officials have been thinking about placing a park-and-ride lot at this high-visibility location for a quarter century, but it took federal money to make it happen, Napa City Councilman Jim Krider, chair of the Napa County Transportation and Planning Agency, said… Because it borders Highway 29 and multiple VINE bus routes, the site should be convenient for people who want to park their cars and take transit, Reno Navarette, manager of the VINE system, said… Approximately 50 workers in various construction trades will draw a paycheck during construction, which should wrap up by mid-summer, NCTPA reported.  The park-and-ride lot will have capacity for 81 cars, 10 motorcycles and five buses, with future space for a Napa Valley Wine Train platform and an electric vehicle charging station if they are needed.  Cyclists will have access to racks and lockers.”  [Napa Valley Register, 4/15/10]

  

San Diego County received a $16.1 million Recovery Act grant to fight youth obesity by promoting healthy lifestyles.  “Two years from now, San Diego County will have more farmer's markets, community and school gardens and workplace policies that promote healthy lifestyles.  There also will be more before- and after-school activity programs to combat youth obesity, and land use and transportation initiatives that promote physical activity and nutrition.  Those are among the key milestones county officials say will be accomplished under a $16.1 million stimulus grant accepted by the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday… The money comes from a $650 million pot set aside by the Obama administration to promote prevention and wellness strategies to reduce obesity, diabetes and other chronic illnesses… About 10 people will be employed by the county to administer the grant and another 56 through its partnering agencies, which include the San Diego Association of Governments, the county Office of Education, UC San Diego, San Diego State University and Community Health Improvement Partners.  To help increase the number of adults and kids meeting physical activity guidelines and engaging in heart-healthy eating habits, the grant includes money for a large-scale media campaign.”  [North County Times, 4/13/10]

  

The Recovery Act will fund the installation of 1,360 solar panels on Alcatraz Island, generating 40 to 60 percent of the facility’s electricity.  “The former federal penitentiary on Alcatraz Island will once again play a role in removing harmful elements from the community after plans emerged for a solar energy system that will reduce carbon emissions from ‘the Rock.’  Approximately 1,360 solar panels are being installed on the main prison building and ancillary structures to replace two aging diesel generators that power facility operations on the island, according to the National Park Service, which operates Alcatraz. … The National Park Service received $754 million in stimulus funding for investments in critical infrastructure and facilities, energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives.  Almost $260 million of the park service’s ARRA funding was directed to projects throughout California… The renewable energy installation will generate an estimated 285 kilowatts of electricity — 40 percent to 60 percent of the electricity for Alcatraz, which attracts about 1 million visitors every year.  The existing generators produce significant carbon emissions and particulate matter and are inefficient and expensive to operate, with annual diesel and maintenance costs of about $700,000, officials say.”  [Correctional News, 4/12/10]

  

President Obama highlighted tax cuts made available through the Recovery Act that increased the average tax return by 10%.  “President Barack Obama used his weekly radio and internet address Saturday to remind Americans that about one-third of last year’s mammoth stimulus bill was made up of tax cuts — and those cuts are having an impact just in time for tax day, April 15.  ‘So far, Americans who have filed their taxes have discovered that the average refund is up nearly 10 percent this year — to an all-time high of about $3,000,’ Obama said.  ‘This is due in large part to the Recovery Act.’  Obama said his tax cuts have already provided ‘more than $160 billion in relief for families and businesses, and nearly $100 billion of that directly into the pockets of working Americans.’  Obama singled out the Making Work Pay tax cut, which typically involves a maximum of $400 for working individuals and $800 for working married couples, the American Opportunity Credit of up to $2,500 for college tuition, and the first time home buyer credit of $8,000.”  [Politico, 4/10/10]

 

The Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute received a $9.7 million Recovery Act grant to build a Chronic Disease Clinical Research Center.  “With a goal of creating jobs and enhancing chronic disease studies, the federal government is awarding a $9.7 million grant of stimulus funds to the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute (LA BioMed) for the construction of a new Chronic Disease Clinical Research Center on its campus, David I. Meyer, PhD, the institute's president and CEO, announced today.  Construction of the new research center is expected to create up to 190 new jobs and a new environment for LA BioMed's research into chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory ailments, cardiac disease and HIV/AIDS. … The grant comes from the National Institutes of Health National Center for Research Resources and is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, or the stimulus program. It requires rapid deployment of shovel-ready projects to ensure the grant creates jobs and stimulates the economy.”  [Medical News, 4/9/10]

 

Senator Boxer and Congressman Sherman toured a company that benefitted from Recovery Act funding.  “Senator Barbara Boxer and Congressman Brad Sherman toured Spectrolab Inc. in Sylmar to discuss with employees and executives how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) is helping the company develop next-generation solar cell technology.  Spectrolab received $2.9 million in ARRA funding for the development of next-generation solar cells, which are expected to be more efficient than current space solar cells, and will enable new generations of high powered satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).  Spectrolab, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, is the world’s leading manufacturer of high-efficiency multifunction space solar cells… ‘I consider it an honor to represent the hard-working men and women of Spectrolab.  Their work is important to maintaining America’s standing as a global leader in science and innovation.  The technology they are developing has the potential to positively impact our lives,’ said Congressman Sherman.  ‘This facility is a great example of how the Recovery Act’s investments in science and education are beneficial to our community and nation’.”  [American Chronicle, 4/9/10]

  

Goodwill Industries and Ventura County tackle unemployment by investing Recovery Act funds in programs that pair the unemployed with employers.  “Goodwill Industries and Ventura County are using federal stimulus funds to put local residents back to work.  In January, Oxnard-based Goodwill was granted $2.46 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to subsidize internships for about 500 people already enrolled in either CalWORKS or the Workforce Investment Act, two government-sponsored jobs programs.  Now Goodwill is scouring the county in search of employers interested in fresh hires.  ‘Candidates have diverse backgrounds and a mixture of work experience and training, so we’re looking for a variety of positions and trades throughout Ventura County,’ said Jenny McGuire, employment counselor for the nonprofit. … Once a business sends in a completed request form describing an open position, Goodwill provides the resumes of qualified applicants and sets up interviews.  If the company decides to hire any of those candidates, Goodwill pays their salary for the first three months… Chris Case, service and parts manager for two Toyota dealerships in Simi Valley and Oxnard, has hired nine workers through Goodwill since late February.  ‘Hopefully, we find several long-term great employees,’ he said.”  [Camarillo Acorn, 4/8/10]

 

Local Initiative Health Authority received a Recovery Act grant to develop a Health Information Technology Regional Extension Center.  “…Local Initiative Health Authority, a Los Angeles non-profit was awarded more than $15.6 million in Recovery Act funds.  These funds will assist in developing a Health Information Technology Regional Extension Center.  The investment will help grow the emerging health information technology industry, which is expected to support tens of thousands of jobs nationwide for nurses, pharmacy technicians, information technology technicians and trainers… Local Initiative Health Authority for Los Angeles County operates L.A. Care Health Plan, the largest public health plan in the nation.  It is now one of 60 non-profit organizations chosen to establish Health Information Technology Regional Extension Centers across the United States… Within two years, the centers nationally will provide 100,000 primary care providers and hospitals with the opportunity to utilize a local resource for technical assistance, guidance and information on best practices.  Regional Extension Centers are designed to address unique community requirements and to support and accelerate provider efforts to become meaningful users of electronic health records.” [Bakersfield News, 4/8/10]

  

Recovery Act loans were awarded to two companies in Merced County which will allow them to save 85 jobs and add 10 additional positions.  “More than $2 million in federal economic recovery loans are going to two companies in Merced County.  The funding is expected to save 85 jobs and add 10 additional positions.  Golden By-Products Inc. will receive $1.5 million and Ag Link Inc. will receive $650,500. … ‘Clearly our community has been hardest hit by the recession,’ says Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Merced.  ‘Few regions are in more need of this funding than the San Joaquin Valley.  Every step we take to keep workers on the job and stabilize the economy is a step in the right direction.’ … They will be guaranteed by the USDA Rural Development Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans program using American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding.  Golden By-Products is a tire recycling business that hauls, sorts and shreds used scrap tires into ‘rubber mulch’ that is typically seen on playgrounds, providing a safe alternative to wooden bark or gravel.  Ag Link is an affiliate company that provides service to Golden By-Products in handling inventory control, order processing and shipping logistics.  The company also makes rubber mats used to cushion livestock stalls and provide sanitary non-toxic bedding material for dairies.”  [Central Valley Business Times, 4/7/10]

  

San Jose Housing Department is using Recovery Act funds to buy, renovate, and find suitable families to purchase foreclosed homes.  “There is a silver lining to the dark cloud of foreclosure.  Now, federal stimulus money can help people buy a home they can afford.  One qualified buyer will receive a recently fixed up home for $397,000.  The City Council Monday is approving a funding agreement with the Housing Trust of Santa Clara County to spend $25 million in federal stimulus money.  The funding, from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will be used to buy and fix up approximately 250 abandoned and foreclosed homes.  Kevin Zwick, the executive director of the Housing Trust of Santa Clara County will be the lead agency for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program or NSP2… The city will target buying foreclosed properties in the four hardest hit zip codes at a price at least one percent below market value… ‘We're looking at putting families in the home who can afford to stay there and afford to maintain the home,’ says James Stagi from the San Jose Housing Department.  The program not only gets qualified people into affordable homes, but the mayor says it cleans up blighted neighborhoods and generates jobs in the hard hit construction industry.”  [ABC7, 4/6/10]

 

The Recovery Act will create 71 jobs in Riverside County by funding nearly two-dozen projects to enhance the energy efficiency of county facilities.  “Nearly two-dozen projects to enhance energy efficiency at Riverside County facilities will be funded with federal stimulus dollars, it was announced today.  The U.S. Department of Energy has approved $6.5 million in American Recovery & Reinvestment Act funds for the county to install renewable energy systems in a number of older buildings, according to county Economic Development Agency spokesman Tom Freeman.  He said the federal taxpayer dollars will pay for 22 projects authorized by the Board of Supervisors.  ‘The county projects saving some $400,000 per year in energy cost reductions, as well as helping the county meet state environmental regulations,’ Freeman said.  ‘Some $1.2 million in savings to the county general fund are generated by the grant funding.’  He said the stimulus funds are expected to create 71 full-time jobs locally.”  [Valley News, 4/5/10]

  

$1.5 million in Recovery Act fundsrenovated the Long Beach storm drain system to alleviate severe flooding in Arlington. “The City of Long Beach is holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday to celebrate the grand opening of a new storm drain system that will alleviate flooding in the Arlington neighborhood, which has experienced severe flooding at least seven times during the past 20 years… ‘Seeing this much-needed project go from the wish list to reality shows me that my vote was the right vote for our families, our neighborhoods and the economy,’ Congresswoman Laura Richardson said.  ‘Through its construction and completion, this project will benefit our community in many ways, including helping to protect the families of the Arlington neighborhood from flooding and the damage it leaves behind, both for individual property owners and for the local environment; providing local jobs, which is especially important with state and local unemployment at the highest rates in decades; and updating vital local infrastructure, which improves the value and health of the neighborhoods and boosts the local economy.’  The $1.5 million storm drain project was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment (Stimulus) Act ….  The project was completed just before the heavy rains that hit Long Beach in January and February of this year, thus preventing flood damage to the homes in this area.”  [Everything Long Beach, 4/1/10]

  

Recovery Act funds build an air traffic control tower at Palm Springs airport, improving safety by allowing controllers to see the runway’s end.  “In two years, the air traffic controllers at the Palm Springs International Airport will finally be able to see the end of the runway.  Built in a gulch in 1967, the existing six-story tower isn't tall enough.  On Wednesday, Rep. Mary Bono Mack announced that $13.9 million in federal stimulus money has been approved, enough to begin construction soon on a higher tower, a ‘shovel-ready project.’  For the last 43 years, controllers have stood 49 feet above the runway. The new tower, to be built on 1.2 acres next to the existing one, will raise them to 127 feet above the tarmac… Safe landings and departures are critical to the Coachella Valley's gateway to the world.  The Palm Springs International Airport is served by 10 airlines that connect to hundreds of cities worldwide.  Every year, it welcomes visitors from more than 500 cities around the world.  About 1.5 million passengers fly in and out of the airport annually… The $21 million tower is projected to generate about 150 jobs.  Groundbreaking is planned for May and construction is expected to be completed in May 2012.”  [The Desert Sun, 4/1/10]

 

The Boys and Girls Club of South Coast used Recovery Act funding to add part-time and full-time jobs and maintain mentoring programs.  “For Matt Clark, the $42,500 in federal stimulus money the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area recently received meant he could quit working two jobs.  It also meant the San Clemente-based club – which has seen its membership swell but funding drop during the recession – wouldn't have to cut programming.  The club used the money to add one part-time job, retain another and turn one part-time position into a full-time slot.  Sixteen Boys & Girls Clubs in Orange County received about $780,000 collectively through the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act adopted last year.  Clubs across the country saw funding drop recently because of a dip in corporate and private donations, said Perry Cooper, a representative of the national Boys & Girls Club.  But the clubs have seen an increase in attendance during the recession because they offer cheaper after-school programs than most, club leaders said.  Also, some parents have had to take on extra jobs, leaving them less available to care for their children, leaders said… The Boys & Girls Clubs' stimulus money came with two objectives: to create or retain jobs and maintain mentoring programs.”  [Orange County Register, 4/1/10]

 

Recovery Act funds job training, recruitment, orientation, work readiness training, and placement assistance in workforce development centers.  “Caltrans today announced that the state has been awarded $2.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) job training grants for eight California workforce development centers. ... The grants, from the Federal Highway Administration’s ‘On the Job Training/Supportive Services’ program, will fund pre-apprenticeships and training centers in California for women, minorities, veterans, and disadvantaged individuals pursuing careers in the highway construction industry… The California Disabled Veteran Business Alliance in Sacramento received $367,483 to provide education and training for veterans seeking skilled highway construction jobs.  The Center for Training and Careers … participating in the ‘Foundation Builders-Working Together to Build a Better Foundation’ program received a total of $796,415.  These funds will provide outreach, recruitment, orientation, work readiness training, supportive services and placement assistance.   The Century Community Training Program in Los Angeles received $290,000, which will provide construction industry skills training … to increase participation by women, minorities and disadvantaged individuals in highway construction.”  [The Pine Tree, 3/30/10]

 

Santa Maria’s roads will have fewer bumps and potholes once Recovery Act-funded construction projects are completed.  “Federal stimulus money is funding several roadway paving projects in Santa Maria.  Construction is slated to begin on Monday on College Drive between Boone Street and Stowell Road.  During the four week project, drivers can expect to experience delays due to alternating lane closures.  Following the completion of work on College Drive, crews are also expected to begin work on Miller Street, Enos Drive, Cook Street and Western Avenue.”  [KEYT, 3/29/10]

 

The Recovery Act provides $1.7 million to upgrade Hogan Lake facilities by filling potholes, adding shade to campsites, and installing 70 solar panels.  “Campers who come to New Hogan Lake this summer will find much smoother roads and more shade at their camp sites, thanks to $1.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding.  But it is some less-visible stimulus dollar spending that will be saving taxpayers money for decades to come: 70 solar electric panels on the roof of New Hogan's Army Corps of Engineers office are reducing the electricity bill there by 41 percent.  ‘Not only are (the panels) generating power, but in the summer they are also shading the roof,’ said Phil Holcomb, the operations manager for the Army Corps of Engineers responsible for Hogan and other Sacramento region sites.  That shade means further savings on air conditioning, he said… Hogan dam uses water to generate electricity, but an agency handles the distribution of that power to the larger grid.  The Army Corps has to buy its electricity off the grid.  When the solar panels yield more power than the office can use, the surplus will feed the grid, earning credits that further reduce the site's electricity bill… ‘In my 33 years with the federal government, I've never seen this great an opportunity to improve our infrastructure,’ Holcomb said.”  [The Record, 3/29/10]

 

Red Bluff Diversion Dam’s fish passage project will use Recovery Act funding to improve water delivery to croplands and fish passage conditions.  “During the groundbreaking ceremony of a fish-friendly, project that also will serve farming interests, local and state authorities joked about who were the real farmers and who knew how to shovel dirt, including Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. … The project … will essentially replace the function of the dam.  Construction of the new screened pumping plant will improve fish passage conditions while ensuring continued water deliveries to 150,000 acres of high-value cropland served by the Tehama-Colusa and Corning canals, according to the Tehama Colusa CanalAuthority, which operates and maintains the delivery system.  Features of the project will include construction of a flat-plate fish screen, an intake channel, a pumping plant with the capacity of 2,500 cubic feet per second, and access bridge and discharge conduit to divert water from the Sacramento River into the Tehama-Colusa and Corning canals.  U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar said the project is the largest of President Obama’s stimulus projects and was awarded $109.8 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Stimulus funding through Reclamation for Project Construction.  He said the fish passage project will create approximately 1,200 jobs…”  [Colusa County Sun-Herald, 3/25/10]

 

A $584,000 Recovery Act grant will help Federspiel Controls cut energy usage at a dozen of California’s data centers.  “Federspiel Controls won a $584,000 stimulus grant to cut data center energy usage at 12 State of California data centers.  El Cerrito-based Federspiel Controls makes enterprise energy management systems.  The systems use closed-loop feedback to monitor and control output of data center air systems.  The systems will be installed over the next 9 months, said spokesman Christopher Kryzan.  Federspiel, founded in 2004, has fewer than 50 employees.  It’s working with California’s Department of General Services to install the systems.  The grant was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.”  [San Francisco Business Journal, 3/25/10]

 

Recovery Act helps Allan Hancock College and Santa Barbara County Workforce Investment Board provide job training to unemployed residents.  “Allan Hancock College is teaming up with the Santa Barbara County Workforce Investment Board to help the unemployed.  County residents, who are out of a job are getting a helping hand, with free classes to help them gain some new skills in high demand occupations.  Thanks to the recent American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, stimulus money is funding these classes which offer education in computer, medical, dental and green job training.”  [KEYT, 3/24/10]

 

Recovery Act funding helps San Diego County’s Human Services Agency establish a food distribution center to increase access to healthy foods.  “A food distribution center will be established by the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency with $16.1 million in stimulus funds, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced Tuesday.  The center will link food demand to supply and increase access to healthy foods, especially in high-need areas, Schwarzenegger said.   Funding for the center is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service's Communities Putting Prevention to Work initiative, a comprehensive prevention and wellness initiative funded under the Recovery Act.” [10 News, 3/24/10]

 

A $110 million fish passage improvement initiative at the Red Bluff diversion dam is the Interior Department’s largest Recovery Act project.  “Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar were among those who spoke Tuesday at a groundbreaking for the $230 million Fish Passage Improvement Project at the Red Bluff Diversion Dam… The bureau and Tehama-Colusa Canal Authority are partners in the endeavor, described by Salazar's office as ‘part of the largest Department of Interior economic stimulus project in the nation.’ Some $110 million in funding comes from President Barack Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  ‘This project represents almost 40 years of efforts by entities to find a balanced solution that improves fish passage and sustains the reliability of agricultural water deliveries,’ said bureau Commissioner Michael Connor, also a speaker at the event.” [Redding Record Searchlight, 3/24/10]

 

Los Angeles County received $32.1 million in Recovery Act funding to promote physical activity and educate the public about obesity prevention.  “The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has received $32.1 million to promote physical activity and educate the public about obesity problems and to reduce tobacco use.   Long Beach's Department of Health and Human Services - the Health Department - should receive over a two-year period, about $1 million of the new federal stimulus funding, Ron Arias, director of the agency, said Tuesday.   The revenue awards are part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Communities Putting Prevention to Work initiative, a comprehensive prevention and wellness effort funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009… The Health Department will utilize the funds for two programs: Project CLEAR (Community Leadership Education Action and Renewal); and a Physical Activity/Obesity Prevention Project that will advocate healthy food and beverage choices through the promotion of healthier food policies, as well as to promote bike friendly business districts.” [The Press Telegram, 3/23/10]

 

Nevada County Board of Supervisors awarded Recovery Act funding to build a hotel and restaurant to stimulate local business and create new jobs.  “The Hotel Avery development is ready to break ground this year, thanks to Tuesday's $5 million blessing from the Nevada County Board of Supervisors.  The board unanimously approved $5 million in low-interest federal stimulus loans from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help start work on the 45-room hotel and restaurant combo planned for the corner of Bridge and South River streets… David Tirman of JMA Ventures, owner of the project, said the hotel will create more than 100 construction jobs and up to 30 hotel and restaurant jobs.  Truckee Vice Mayor Richard Anderson said it will not only create new jobs, but stimulate business in the downtown area and help connect the Hilltop area to downtown.” [Sierra Sun, 3/23/10]

 

Yolo County received Recovery Act funds to build a solar power system at the sherriff’s department that could save up to $8.8 million over 25 years.  “Yolo County could be looking at $8.8 million in energy savings over the next 25 years, thanks to the construction of a 1-megawatt solar power system that has been approved by the Board of Supervisors.  The system, which will be designed and built by the San Jose-based energy company SunPower, is to be installed at the Yolo County Justice Center … In order to finance the costs associated with the installation, which will be upwards of $7 million, the county drew upon clean renewable energy bonds and energy conservation bonds available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, as well as received a 15-year loan from the California Energy Commission totaling $2.5 million… In addition to the monetary savings associated with the project, the county also expects to see a large decline in its emission level once the solar power system is in place.  According to formulas provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the county can expect to decrease its carbon dioxide output by 2.2 million pounds a year, a number that would be equivalent to removing 5,700 automobiles from California's roadways during the course of the project's 30-year lifespan” [The Daily Democrat, 3/22/10]

 

Merced will use $1.2 million in Recovery Act funding to resurface it’s frequently travelled and rundown roads.  “The $787 billion federal stimulus package passed in 2009 and meant to bolster the faltering economy has finally come to the streets of Merced.  Literally.  The orange construction signs lining 16th Street are the first step in a months-long project that will begin today to resurface much of the thoroughfare as it runs through town.  Road work signs will be a common sight on some Merced streets as federal stimulus money will be used to resurface the busy roads.  The $1.2 million project is just one among a handful of stimulus projects in Merced funded through the federal stimulus package, also known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  ‘If we did not receive these funds, we wouldn't be doing this project,’ said Daniel Ainslie, with the city's redevelopment agency… A second stimulus funded road project worth $1.2 million will begin later this year.” [Merced Sun Star, 3/23/10]

 

Calaveras County will see road improvements, construction of a bike trail, and highway resurfacing thanks to Recovery Act funding.  “More than $1.37 million in federal stimulus funds will go to six road improvement projects and a bike trail in Calaveras County.  The projects are among $3.8 billion worth of projects approved for California in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, better known as the federal stimulus package… Road improvement projects approved for funding in Calaveras County include repaving and rehabilitating… Also approved is $83,768 for 275 feet of bicycle and pedestrian lanes in West Point along Highway 26, on both sides of the cross walk in front of West Point Elementary School.   Almost $3.7 million will go to two road-improvement projects and a trail project in Tuolumne County.   Twelve and-a-half miles of highway J-59 will be rebuilt and upgraded between the Stanislaus-Tuolumne County Line to 200 feet short of Highway 120/108 at a cost of $2.1 million.  Highway 49 will be resurfaced from .2 miles south of Pesce Way to the Calaveras County line at a cost of $1.2 million.  A trail also will be built along the Sugar Pine Railroad between East Avenue and Gurney Station Road for pedestrians and bicycles at a cost of $249,514.” [The Union Democrat, 3/22/10]

 

$191,000 from the Recovery Act will fund the clean-up of abandoned mobile homes at Lake Berryessa.  “Federal Recovery Act funds will help remove dozens of abandoned mobile homes at Lake Berryessa as part of a restoration project.  The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has been working for several years to restore an area of lakeshore previously leased to a resort concessionaire.  The bureau did not renew the lease in order to restore the land and create more short-term recreational opportunities.  Unfortunately, dozens of mobile homes were abandoned by their owners.  The $191,000 federal stimulus contract, announced last week, was awarded to Custom Builders of Twain Harte to demolish or haul away mobile homes, trailers and other structures, including decks and sheds, on about 90 former dwelling sites. Bureau spokesman Pete Lucero said the work will begin ‘imminently.’” [Sacramento Bee, 3/22/10]  

 

Manteca will undertake the ‘most ambitious landscaping project in city history’ with $1.4 million from the Recovery Act.  “Manteca – working in tandem with Caltrans and the San Joaquin County Council of Governments – is about to undertake the most expensive and ambitious landscaping project in city history.  Some $1.4 million in American Recovery Act money will transform up to 50 acres at two interchanges – the 120 Bypass and Highway 99 as well as Highway 99 at Yosemite Avenue – from barren weed infested areas into ones drenched in color and foliage.  The biggest change will take place at the 120 Bypass with Highway 99 where upwards of 130,000 vehicles pass through daily making it the heaviest traveled pavement in Manteca.  It is there that up to 1,700 trees – primarily native species – will be planted.  The Yosemite Avenue and Highway 99 interchange landscaping will be more ornamental in nature.  It will include a monument entry sign to Manteca on the island in the middle of Yosemite Avenue on the west side of the freeway.  Caltrans’s design perimeters call for minimizing the use of water at the 120 Bypass/Highway 99 interchange.  The trees will be irrigated intensely for about three years to get them established.” [Manteca Bulletin, 3/22/10]

 

A major portion of Gladstone Street in Irwindale will be resurfaced using $500,000 from the Recovery Act.  “Stimulus dollars fund Irwindale street resurfacing.  The city's public works department this week began resurfacing Gladstone Street in a project funded primarily with federal stimulus dollars.  The city will reconstruct and resurface Gladstone from Irwindale Avenue to Vincent Avenue over the next three to four months, according to Loretta Corpis of the Public Works Department.  ‘It was very much in need.  It has a lot of potholes,’ Corpis said.  The street will remain open to traffic during construction, but one lane in each direction will be closed.  The project will cost approximately $600,000, with $500,000 coming from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), also known as the stimulus.” [San Gabriel Valley Tribune, 3/21/10]

 

Portersville received $1.3 million in Recovery Act funding to bring their buses up to California’s energy efficiency standards.  “With help from federal stimulus dollars, the city’s fleet of public buses is close to becoming entirely energy efficient.  Awarded a $1.3 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant, the city has ordered three new buses that will run on alternative fuel and are expected to arrive in October.  The buses will operate with relatively cheap and clean-burning Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), bringing the number of such buses to nine, surpassing state air quality standards... Included in the standards is a requirement that by Dec. 31 the city meet an 80 percent reduction in particulate matters and nitrogen oxide emissions.  But with nine of the seven buses necessary to complete the city’s transit system’s nine routes now set to run on CNG, the city will be 100 percent compliant by that time.  It is these types of projects that Ted Smalley, the executive director of the Tulare County Association of Governments, said that city and county representatives were able to use as lobbying leverage during their recent trip to Washington D.C... Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Tulare County was allocated $23 million, including $5 million for transit projects.” [Recorder Online, 3/18/10]

 

Nine US Army Corps of Engineers’ offices will install solar electricity systems to provide 41% of each building’s power with Recovery Act funds.   “Solar electricity systems are being installed at nine U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District park and dam operation offices in California, part of a Corps-wide effort to improve the environmental sustainability of its projects.  The systems, paid for with funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), are expected to provide 41 percent of each office’s electricity needs on average, said Sacramento District Northern Area Operations Manager Phil Holcomb.  The solar panels at New Hogan Lake will not only reduce energy consumption, Holcomb said, but also greenhouse gases – by more than 28,000 pounds annually, the same as planting six acres of trees.  District wide, the panels will cut carbon emissions by 156,000 pounds annually.  The solar panels are just one of a series of measures Sacramento District park offices have taken to reduce energy consumption, he said.  The $1.26 million contract to provide and install all of the solar systems was awarded in September to Women’s Empowerment Partnership Inc. of Bell Gardens, Calif., an 8(a) designated contractor.” [Online Broadcasting Systems News, 3/17/10]

 

Energy Secretary highlighted the impact of the Recovery Act on a San Francisco biofuel startup that opened a refinery with its $21.8 million grant.  “Eager to show that stimulus funds are helping small businesses, federal officials on Wednesday highlighted two Bay Area green-tech companies to prove their point.  U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu pointed to Solazyme, an advanced biofuel startup in South San Francisco, and Silver Spring Networks, a smart-grid company in Redwood City, to illustrate how last year's stimulus package has generated jobs and helped the clean-energy industry… Solazyme won a $21.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy last year to open a pilot biorefinery in Pennsylvania.  The company, which has about 80 employees, estimates that opening the biorefinery will create 88 direct jobs and 250 indirect jobs… According to a report issued Wednesday by the Department of Energy, small businesses have received 33 percent of the energy-related stimulus grants, loan guarantees and other incentives awarded so far.  Those incentives are worth a total of $5.4 billion, which is equal to 10 percent of the stimulus money awarded by the Energy Department to date.” [San Francisco Chronicle, 3/18/10]

 

Recovery Act funding will improve protection of lands at risk of flooding, restore wildlife habitats and increase opportunities for recreation.  “The Cosumnes River in the Central Valley will be reconnected with its historic floodplain, improving wildlife habitat in a biologically rich region, using $2.2 million in federal stimulus money, according to the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Nature Conservancy of California… The project is expected to improve protection for agricultural and urban lands continually threatened by flooding.  In addition, the project will offer local job opportunities in order to complete the restoration work. … Once restoration is complete, the project will connect to and result in additional habitat for the Cosumnes River Preserve, now encompassing more than 46,000 acres in Sacramento County.  The project will offer the public more opportunities for recreation, such as fishing, hiking, bird-watching and wildlife viewing… The project includes studying whether ‘cluster planting’ techniques -- planting vegetation in denser groups instead of the traditional row planting -- promotes greater plant diversity.  The partners also will study carbon uptake and groundwater recharge results.” [Central Valley Business Times, 3/15/10]

 

Manteca will relieve its deficit and install energy efficient induction lamps n 4,800 street lights with $685,830 in Recovery Act funding.  “Manteca will lighten the general fund deficit next year by at least $150,000 thanks to $685,830 in federal stimulus recovery funds.  The money will be used to reduce energy costs by placing high-efficiency induction lamps in Manteca’s 4,800 street lights.   … The savings will allow the city to reduce its projected $3.8 million deficit for the fiscal year starting July 1.  Manteca has been allocated $586,200 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  It is part of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program designed to assist public agencies in implementing strategies to reduce fossil fuel emissions, reduce total energy use, and improve energy efficiency.  An additional $99,630 is coming from the Community Development Grant Recovery money that is also part of the stimulus package but is aimed specifically at low-income neighborhoods. …  Energy costs will be reduced by retrofitting all of the city’s existing street lights with high-efficiency LED lamps.  And to keep costs in line and to maximize the number of street lights that can be replaced, the city will use its own equipment and crews to do the job.” [Manteca Bulletin, 3/14/10]

 

$1.3 million from the Recovery Act will fund improvements to two roads in Santa Ynez Valley.  “Approximately $1.3 million of economic stimulus funds have been designated for shoulder safety improvements on two roads in the Santa Ynez Valley, officials from the Santa Barbara County Public Works Department announced.  New safety roadway shoulders will be added on Refugio Road between Samantha Drive and Roblar Avenue, and on Roblar Avenue between Refugio Road and Grand Avenue.   This project will create an 11-foot wide travel lane and a new 5-foot wide shoulder on Refugio Road and Roblar Avenue, officials said.  The work is scheduled to begin March 15, and is expected to be completed by the end of June… ‘The county is grateful that a portion of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds have been directed towards important enhancements to our transportation infrastructure including the construction of safety shoulders in the rural Santa Ynez Valley, and I am looking forward to celebrating the completion of this important safety project,’ said 3rd District Supervisor Doreen Farr.” [Santa Ynez Valley News, 3/11/10]

 

Solar Power Inc. received a $25.7 million Recovery Act grant for construction of a solar panel factory that will employ 100 workers.  “A Roseville company announced that it has received $25.7 million in federal economic stimulus assistance to build a solar panel factory and a 10-megawatt electricity-generating plant powered by the sun.  The move by Solar Power Inc. is particularly significant because it will bring up to 100 factory jobs to the local area.  Although Sacramento has had some success in growing green companies, it has struggled somewhat to create manufacturing jobs… ‘Expanding our manufacturing base to California will significantly enhance our ability to meet growing demand,’ said Steve Kircher, Solar Power's chairman and chief executive… Solar energy is one area where Sacramento is making some inroads; it gives companies easy access to an enormous market in a sunny climate.  At least three overseas solar companies have established U.S. headquarters in the Sacramento area.  One company, South Korea's Millinet Solar, said last month that it will build a solar panel factory at McClellan Park.  The plant will eventually employ 150 workers.” [The Sacramento Bee, 3/10/10]

 

Pinnacles National Monument will replace the flood prone visitors center with a LEED certified facility using $13 million from the Recovery Act.  “The Pinnacles National Monument is slated to receive $13 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the National Park Service announced Tuesday.  The money will fund two projects — the first to demolish and relocate the flood-prone maintenance and visitor facilities on the west side, and the second will demolish and replace two trailers and a tent cabin.  In addition to job creation and improving park facilities, officials said, the project will be entirely off-grid.  A photovoltaic system utilizing both roof-mounted and ground-rack mounted arrays will be integrated at the maintenance structure.  The visitor center will employ passive and active solar components for heating and lighting.  The project will also encourage the selection of sustainably grown, harvested, produced and transported products and materials.  Both projects are registered with U.S. Green Building Council for LEED certification and will meet or exceed the LEED Silver rating.” [The Californian, 3/10/10]

 

$22 million in Recovery Act funding will install new traffic signals, fire hydrants, and fiber optic infrastructure at the Port of Los Angeles.  “A $22 million federal stimulus grant project is underway at the Port of Los Angeles this week, which will result in improvements along a 1.3-mile stretch of Harry Bridges Boulevard in Wilmington, Calif. … Although the project will widen Harry Bridges Boulevard, the street will remain a two-lane highway in each direction with the capacity to increase to three lanes in each direction to accommodate future traffic demand.  The project is the first grant awarded to the Port of Los Angeles through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009… The venture will include improvements along Harry Bridges Boulevard from Lakme Avenue to Figueroa Street.  It will involve grading, utility relocations, construction of concrete walks, gutters, driveways, traffic signals, fire hydrants, street lighting storm drainage, signage, landscaping, irrigation and fiber optic infrastructure.  Construction is expected to be completed in January 2012.” [Trucking Info, 3/10/10]

 

A Recovery Act project at the San Francisco airport project is employing 300 workers.  “U.S. Rep. Jackie Speier got a firsthand look yesterday at where millions in federal stimulus money is being spent in her district by visiting a massive construction project at San Francisco International Airport, an energy technology company in South San Francisco and a group of nonprofit leaders in San Mateo who have all benefited from the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009… Recovery Act funds have also gone toward keeping teachers employed in Daly City, research at the University of California San Francisco, job training in the county and maintaining jobs at SamTrans and Caltrain… Speier, county Supervisor Mark Church and the Workforce Investment Program recently sponsored a jobs bootcamp that was paid for with stimulus money… SFO received a total of $29.9 million in ARRA money for projects including $14.5 million for a new runway and $15.4 million for a checked screening project at the airport’s new Terminal 2 that will eventually host Virgin America and American Airlines when completed. About 300 construction jobs were made possible by stimulus money at the airport, said John Martin, airport director.” [The Daily Journal, 3/9/10]

 

Recovery Act funding will allow Silicon Valley public transportation to replace outdated diesel buses with energy efficient upgrades.  “Nearly $17 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants have been awarded to the Silicon Valley public-transportation systems.   Two of the three grants will fund hybrid buses for Santa Clara County's Valley Transportation Authority and San Mateo County's Samtrans system.  The third grant will fund new Caltrain railroad bridges in San Mateo County.   Congresswoman Anna G. Eshoo (D-Palo Alto) said investment in transit is a great use of stimulus money because the work creates jobs in construction and transit operations.  Other benefits are fewer automobile commutes by residents and less traffic, with less consumption of energy, Eshoo said in an announcement of the grants.   The VTA will purchase 20 40-foot-long hybrid buses under a $12,251,784 grant.   Samtrans will purchase two 40-foot replacement buses and two 35-foot replacement buses under a $2,045,371 grant.   Caltrain will fund the San Mateo County Railroad Bridge Replacement Project under a $2,684,596 grant.” [Palo Alto Online, 3/9/10]

 

A road renovation project funded by the Recovery Act will fill potholes, improve lighting, and decrease congestion.  “As caravans of big rigs rumbled past, construction began Monday on $22 million worth of road improvements along a 1.3- mile, pockmarked stretch of Harry Bridges Boulevard in Wilmington.   The project, set for completion in January 2012, is expected to ease congestion along the north end of the Port of Los Angeles while also improving truck access to the TraPac container terminal, which is undergoing a separate $1.5 billion expansion. …   Trees, sidewalks, streetlights and a center median will be in place after construction is completed in two years.  Harry Bridges will remain two lanes in each direction, but port officials said the new road could be expanded to three lanes each way, depending on future traffic demands….   ‘By this time next year this Wilmington buffer will be complete and these road improvements we're doing today ... will make it safer and easier for the community to enjoy this new open space,’ said Los Angeles Councilwoman Janice Hahn, who represents the Harbor Area… The entire project is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the largest single federal stimulus grant awarded to so-called shovel-ready projects in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, port officials said.” [Press Telegram, 3/8/10]

 

Santa Maria used its Recovery Act funding to repair levees, build a new transit station, and upgrade curbs, gutters, and sidewalks.  “Several kinds of green have come to Santa Maria.  One is the stimulus money from the federal government for various public projects.  Another is the county energy efficiency program.  And a third is the number of green buildings already constructed or planned for the near future.  The stimulus money comes from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which provides funds to local governments for public works projects, thus the investment part.  Santa Maria has been the beneficiary of over $14 million for street paving, upgrades of curbs, gutters and sidewalks, vans and buses for our transit system and the new transit center, and some funds for the new northwest fire station.  On top of all that, the levee repairs have been allocated $40.2 million.  These projects are not only creating jobs for local contractors, but the money is being used to build long-lasting infrastructure we will be able to use for many years.” [Santa Maria Times, 3/5/10]

 

Construction will begin on the rehabilitation of two senior-occupied buildings thanks to $11.1 million from the Recovery Act.  “The Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation will close financing and start construction this week on the $21 million rehabilitation of two senior-occupied buildings at 165 Turk St. and 249 Eddy St.  The projects, which are a block from each other in the Tenderloin neighborhood, will be San Francisco’s first construction project built with ARRA (‘American Reinvestment and Recovery Act’ or stimulus) funds.  The projects received $11.1 million in stimulus money.  Both buildings house a 100 percent Section 8 low-income senior population.  TNDC purchased the properties in 2007 because the buildings’ Section 8 contracts were set to expire in 2010 and the previous private owner expressed an interest in selling the buildings to a private investor who wanted to convert them to market rate housing.  The potential conversion to market-rate rents would have displaced the senior resident population.  ‘Had these properties converted to market-rate housing, most of the seniors living in those buildings would have had nowhere else to go,’ said Don Falk, TNDC’s executive director.” [San Francisco Business Journal, 3/4/10]

 

Recovery Act funding saved a Novato police officer’s job days before the city council would have voted to cut the position.  “Just days before cutbacks in the Novato Police Department were to be debated by the Novato City Council, the department received some welcome news that an officer position will be funded by a federal stimulus grant in a round-about way.  Novato police Capt. Jim Berg told the council Tuesday that the Marin County Sheriff's Coordination of Probation Enforcement team, to which the department contributes personnel on a rotating basis, has received a grant from the Anti-Drug Abuse Enforcement Team's Recovery Act Program worth $125,000 a year for the next two years.  A schools resource officer position was among Novato's proposed budget cuts for the 2010-11 fiscal year, and the council was to vote on it by the end of March.  That cut was to save the city $125,000 annually.  Now that the grant has come through, no cut will be necessary for at least two years for that officer position.  The resource officer is being moved to a patrol beat, as originally planned, as another patrol officer joins the county's probation enforcement squad.” [Contra Costa Times, 3/3/10]

 

$400,000 from Recovery Act allowed MiraCosta College to hire an instructor to teach a course on hybrid car maintenance.  “Today, the back wall of the Automotive Technology garage at MiraCosta College in Oceanside is lined with gas-powered engines.  Soon those old internal-combustion bangers will get a quiet new electric companion.  The community college, with the help of a $400,000 federal stimulus grant, has ordered an electric motor, an array of insulated tools and special safety gloves to prepare for its new hybrid vehicle technician program. … MiraCosta is the only community college in San Diego County to offer a course focused on the ins and outs of maintaining and repairing hybrid passenger vehicles like the Prius, the best-selling gas-electric vehicle in America… Because the course is paid for with a grant from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, priority is given to automotive workers who have been laid off or are ‘under employed,’ meaning they work less than full time… The first class starts April 10 and will have fewer than 20 students.  But MiraCosta's grant requires the college to train at least 120 students by mid 2011, so there will be subsequent sessions each following semester.” [North County Times, 3/2/10]

 

A Recovery Act funded job training program at Palomar College helps San Diego entrepreneur open his own business.  “Michael Cohen, 35, transferred to San Diego nearly ten years ago while working with Merrill Lynch.  Just a few years later, Michael was laid off and working in food service.  He also wanted to start his own business, and with an interest in energy  efficiency, Michael enrolled with the California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE)… During a CCSE forum, Palomar College presented on their free Home Energy Rating System training program offered to eligible candidates with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding.  Michael signed on without hesitation. This opportunity, made possible through funding from the San Diego Workforce Partnership, has changed his life.  With a strong emphasis on business development, the program helped Michael and two colleagues start up their own business called Icarus.  Icarus is a certified home energy rating company specializing in green energy technologies used to provide comfort, health, safety, and cost savings in people’s homes.  Michael and his partners have personally paid for all start-up costs and in two weeks will receive a small business loan for future expenses.” [San Diego News Network, 3/2/10]

 

Jobs program subsidized by the Recovery Act gives businesses more flexibility in hiring new workers.  “Shasta County is looking to use $7.8 million in federal Emergency Contingency Funds to create 200 local jobs for needy families.  As of Monday afternoon, 18 companies had requested contracts from Shasta FACES for a total of 95 jobs.  The program, part of the Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), provides federally subsidized employment through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Lewis said she's been looking for work since her son was 6 months old and hasn't been able to find anything despite experience in retail, customer service, grocery stores and medical offices… Ron Martin of Upper Crust Pizza in Redding was the first business owner to get an approved contract through the county for the subsidized employees.  Martin hired one employee in February and said the Shasta FACES program has helped defray training costs, which can be burdensome when the employee doesn't stay.  ‘It does give you an opportunity to give people a chance,’ he said… Though the funding ends in September, Martin said he would like to keep the employee he hired longer than that and would consider hiring more employees through the program.” [Record Searchlight, 3/2/10]

 

Arcata will use Recovery Act funds to landscape, add sidewalks and bicycle lanes, and art zones to an area that will become a ‘Gateway’ to the city.  “ Council members walked down Samoa Boulevard from F Street to J Street to try and visualize how the previously industrial area will be transformed into a ‘gateway’ for the city through the beautification project, said Deputy Director of Public Works Morgan Kessler.  The project aims to make the area safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and visitors, while also reflecting the rest of Arcata.  The plan includes adding landscaping, sidewalks, way-finding signs, bicycle lanes, and art zones to the area.… As the area is now, ‘sidewalks are dangerously narrow, broken, and non-ADA-compliant,’ there are no bike lanes and minimal shoulders, vehicles speed through the area and the corridor ‘aesthetically reflects’ its industrial past, Kessler said.  The proposed changes would help mitigate these issues and would also improve the road's drainage problems and repair the medians.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will fund a majority of the project with $1.3 million.  The remainder will be paid for through redevelopment funds.” [The Times-Standard, 3/2/10]

 

Lake Sonoma/Warm Spring Dam Fish Hatchery to install a new water filtration system and generator with $343,500 in Recovery Act funding.  “A San Francisco small business has been awarded a $343,500 federal stimulus contract to improve the Lake Sonoma/Warm Springs Dam fish hatchery.  The San Francisco District of the Army Corps of Engineers awarded the contract to Yerba Buena Engineering & Construction, Inc., on Thursday as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, according to the agency.  The project will include installing a water filtration system and replacing the hatchery's generator.  Work is scheduled to start March 15 and run through mid-July.  Lake Sonoma and the Warm Springs Dam are federal property located near Geyserville in unincorporated Somona County.” [San Francisco Examiner, 3/1/10]

 

An infusion of $500 million in Recovery Act funds into Small Business Administration leads to an increase in loans for Napa County businesses.  “As the nation’s banks remain wary of lending money to small businesses, a stimulus program is channeling money to more than 23,000 businesses nationwide, including nearly a dozen in Napa County.  The Small Business Administration received $500 million in American Reinvestment and Recovery Act funds to lower fees and increase the guarantees banks receive on loans made through the SBA.  In Napa County, 11 businesses either saved money or scored loans they couldn’t have landed on their own because of the stimulus award… Stamler said the $500 million award has significantly increased small business loans, which are made to businesses that promise to invest some of their own money in the projects being financed.  The SBA’s primary lending program has backed 37 percent more loans during its latest quarter than it did in the same quarter in 2008.  ‘Because the SBA was able to raise the guarantee, the bank is more willing to take on the loan,’ Stamler said.” [Napa Valley Register, 2/28/10]

 

National Science Foundation awards a Recovery Act grant to manufacturer of crystals used as a light source in cell phones and other devices.  “Stimulus money is helping a high-tech company in Anderson grow… Shasta Crystals was awarded a $150,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to develop and manufacture nonlinear optical crystals as a light source application in devices such as cell phones. … The light source would be used to project an image from a cell phone onto a screen… Shasta Crystals asked for Herger's help to secure the grant. The Chico Republican's staff ended up writing letters of support, and Shasta Crystals received the first $100,000 in June.  The company got the remaining $50,000 in December.  Cruikshank noted the first $100,000 that Shasta Crystals received was federal stimulus money - part of $9 billion in research grants the National Science Foundation awarded in 2009.  About $3 billion of that came from stimulus funds.” [The Record Searchlight, 2/26/10]

 

Recovery Act will fund heating, ventilation, and air conditioning upgrades at the Sonoma Valley Hospital.  “The California Energy Commission Wednesday approved a $1,966,762 low-cost loan for energy upgrades at the Sonoma Valley Hospital.  The loan, together with a $174,628 rebate from PG&E, will enable the hospital to implement its planned $2.1 million energy improvement project that will save a projected $175,000 in annual energy costs.  These savings, created by the improvements made possible by the loan, will pay for the loan… He said nearly 80 percent of the funds would be used to transform the hospital's heating, ventilation and air conditioning system into an energy-efficient system that takes optimum advantage of fluctuations in energy availability and pricing, to create monetary savings and to reduce greenhouse emissions.  Lighting upgrades, both inside and outside the facility, will be among the hospital's most cost-effective energy improvements… Double-paned tinted windows will replace older, single pane windows in some parts of the hospital.  Nearly 10 percent of the CEC funding will contribute to renovating the hospital's IT.” [Sonoma News, 2/25/10]

 

$1.5 million in Recovery Act funding will help restore a water system that affects 250 people in Yreka.  “It was just over a year ago that President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The initial idea for the stimulus plan was to create jobs and help kick start the economy.  Locally, Siskiyou County Rolling Hills Mutual Water Company a Non-Profit, Inc. and Siskiyou Training and Employment program have benefited from ARRA funds.  The water company received just under $1.5 million to re-do the water system that has 95 connections affecting about 250 people located on the southeast side of Fairlane Road in Yreka. However, $344,000 of that is a long-term low interest loan.  ‘I’ve been trying to get grant money since 1982 when I took over,’ said company water master Bob Phares… But the timing was right to get the ARRA funds and they were ready to go.  Work began in early January and DeMers said the lack of winter has worked to their advantage.  The work was originally scheduled to take 180 days, and the project is right on track, DeMers said.” [Mount Shasta Area Newspapers, 2/25/10]

 

Humboldt County will use Recovery Act funds to assist small businesses in hiring workers by paying 80% of their wagesRecovery Act.  “Small businesses and jobless parents in Humboldt County are about to get a hand up in this foundering economy.  The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors approved a pair of contracts Tuesday with local employment agencies, allowing them to use up to $2 million in federal subsidies through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to place low-income parents in jobs with local businesses.  Under the program, 80 percent of the employment costs -- including wages, benefits, supervision, training and payroll taxes -- would be covered by the stimulus funds, with local employers paying the remaining 20 percent… More than 240 ARRA subsidized positions within the county have been approved… ‘The primary objective is to provide an immediate source of income for unemployed and low-income parents,’ she said. ‘But ARRA funding also enables employers to hire employees they might otherwise be unable to afford…’” [Times Standard, 2/24/10]

 

Recovery Act funds local community college program that allows San Diego residents to study streamlining health care technology .  “… Mai heard about the Healthcare Information Technology program at the University of California San Diego.  This 11-week program is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) through the San Diego Workforce Partnership.  The course educated Mai on current healthcare issues, healthcare technology, project management and medical terminology.  Due to UCSD’s training program, Mai has advanced considerably as a Database Analyst with Vista Community Clinic.  The clinic recently received $11.5 million in ARRA funds towards a $20 million expansion project. Construction will add 24,000 square feet of space, expanding pediatrics, prenatal and family medicine, allowing service to an additional 12,200 patients each year.” [San Diego Workforce Partnership, 2/23/10]

 

Recovery Act allows Santa Barbara county to examine green industries and determine how to help them grow and retain a strong workforce. “A $250,000 grant will allow Santa Barbara County and its neighbors to fund a study of emerging ‘green’ industries to determine how regional workforce investment boards can help unemployed workers secure and keep jobs in those new markets.  Funded through the federal economic stimulus plan and a state assembly bill, the grant will be directed into research via the Santa Barbara Workforce Investment Board, which is partnering with similar groups in San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties… The grant will be used to commission a study by San Diego-based firm BW Research into green, clean and energy-efficient industries…. The information will help the workforce investment board determine how to help businesses in those industries grow, find qualified workers to fill job openings, and help unemployed workers gain the skills needed to take those jobs.” [The Daily Sound, 2/23/10]

 

Santa Barbara receives $1.9 million from the Recovery Act to replace diesel buses with 9 new buses fueled by natural gas.  “City officials are planning to spruce up the Big Blue Bus fleet with nine new 40-foot buses that run on compressed natural gas.  The new buses would replace 13-year-old coaches City Hall says are more costly to maintain and run on dirtier diesel fuel.  The planned purchases will cost $5.16 million, with the funds for three of the nine buses — about $1.9 million — coming from a federal grant received under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, better known as the stimulus bill.  The new buses are expected to arrive in October, along with other new additions to the fleet. At that point City Hall said more than 65 percent of the BBB fleet will run on natural gas or hybrid technology.” [Santa Monica Daily Press, 2/23/10]

 

A Recovery Act Small Business Administration loan funds construction of a new restaurant in WhittierRecovery Act.  “When Sandra Hahn and her partners couldn't get a loan for their new Uptown restaurant, Amber Blu Taste, they went to the federal government for help.  And the Small Business Administration came through, guaranteeing a $1.667 million loan through a Newport Beach bank for the new restaurant, at 6554 Greenleaf Ave.  It was part of the federal government's stimulus program.… ‘If I hadn't gotten this loan, we wouldn't be talking about Amber Blu,’ said Hahn, 49, of Whittier.… Jeff Collier, director of community development for Whittier, said it's great news for Uptown that Hahn obtained the loan.  ‘It's another opportunity to see more investment and more space become active,’ Collier said.” [Whittier Daily News, 2/22/10]

 

San Jose State University Research Foundation received a $5 million Recovery Act grant to fund biotechnology research.  “A federal biotechnology stimulus grant of $5 million has been awarded to the San Jose State University Research Foundation.  University officials, who announced the grant Monday, said it was the largest of nine similar grants of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds awarded in California.  The grant will benefit the university’s clinical laboratory scientist training program, which is launching a new initiative called the California Statewide Biotechnology Clinical Laboratory Consortium Project.  It’s designed to identify, recruit and educate up to 200 students for jobs as medical laboratory technicians, clinical laboratory specialists, clinical genetic molecular biologists and cytogeneticists.  Hourly wages in those positions currently range from $22 to $45 per hour… Sue Gayrard, a biological sciences instructor at San Jose State, said in a statement the project will provide ‘crucial support to the clinical laboratory and biotechnology industry at a time when a shortage of licensed scientists and technicians continues to challenge us.”  [Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal, 2/22/10]

 

$1.8 Million in Recovery Act funding is ‘A Godsend,’ helping districts retain teachers and expand programs for special needs children.  “Nearly $300 million has poured into five Sacramento-area districts since President Barack Obama authorized $100 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds for the nation's schools last year… A Bee analysis finds that most local districts used their federal stimulus money to pay for keeping teachers and basic programs… Understandably, the federal stimulus money was a godsend to the districts.  Elk Grove Unified – the area's largest district – used $26 million of its $39.5 million in stimulus funds to save the jobs of teachers, counselors, library technicians, vice principals and administrative assistants… Before the new programs began this year, 332 of the district's students with autism, mental retardation or emotional problems had to be sent to non-public schools as far away as El Dorado County, said district officials. The new programs have brought 72 of those students back into the district.” [Sacramento Bee, 2/22/10]

 

Recovery Act fills funding gap on major rail project that will employ over 3,500 Californians.  “More than 3,500 jobs could be headed to the Inland Empire after an infusion of federal stimulus dollars that will help pay for a critical railroad project here.  Local transportation officials say $34 million in American Recovery Act money announced this week should cover the final funding gap for the $198 million railroad grade separation.  ‘Certainty, major infrastructure projects like this are the quickest way to ensure an influx of jobs into the economy and that will certainly be an outcome of this allocation,’ said Deborah Barmack, executive director of San Bernardino Associated Governments, or Sanbag, the county's transportation agency.  Around 100 trains a day pass through the Colton Crossing, where BNSF Railway tracks intersect Union Pacific Railroad tracks, Barmack said. For decades, one set of trains has had to come to a full stop to allow other trains to pass, she said… A federal formula estimates that for every million dollars spent on a major transportation project, 18 jobs are created, Barmack said.  Based on the early estimate of the project's cost, that's about 3,564 jobs.” [San Bernardino Sun, 2/19/10]

 

Salud Clinic celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Recovery Act in newly expanded facility made possible with aid from the Act.  “Celebrating Salud Para la Gente's expanded clinic made possible by federal stimulus money, Rep. Sam Farr came to Watsonville Wednesday to see what a $900,000 grant had created.  The Carmel Democrat spoke at an event commemorating the one-year anniversary of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act outside the renovated Clinica del Valle del Pajaro building at Watsonville Community Hospital.  The clinic, part of Salud – a full-service community health care nonprofit that means ‘Health for the People’ – received federal money to expand its facilities and to create jobs.  The Recovery Act allocated $787 billion nationally to public works spending and tax cuts… The 170-member organization used the funds to create 9,000 square feet of new space that will house pediatrics, general medical practices, dental and vision facilities and more. Additionally, the organization plans to hire two new physicians and it anticipates being able to serve more than 1,300 new patients through March 2011.  It currently employs 16 physicians, 10 dentists and one optometrist, among others… Lindsey Connor of Connor Plumbing Inc. in Watsonville, said last year ‘was a very frightening time for the construction industry.  I was extremely grateful to be involved in this project.  It provided much-needed employment and stability.’” [Santa Cruz Sentinel, 2/18/10]

 

Recovery Act funds $6.4 million straightening of dangerous stretch of Highway 44.  “A dangerous stretch of road will get a long-planned straightening starting next month thanks to $6.4 million in federal stimulus funds.  On the one-year anniversary of the signing of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the California Department of Transportation announced Wednesday it awarded a $7.7 million contract to J.F. Shea Construction Inc. of Redding for an 11-month project on Highway 44…’ [The location] was chosen because it was a safety improvement project,’ Caltrans District 2 Director John Bulinski said.  ‘At this location, we have an accident rate that is higher than statewide averages - it's about 5.5 times higher.’  Bulinski said there were 25 wrecks on the stretch of road between March 2002 and February 2007.  Michael Mayor, a Caltrans spokesman, said a two-mile stretch of winding road will be straightened…The road will also have wider shoulders and an extended truck-climbing lane.” [Redding Record Searchlight, 2/17/10]

 

$2 million Recovery Act grant allows Early Head Start Program to serve 112 low income women, families.  “Out with state funding, in with the federal stimulus.  After seeing state funding slashed for early intervention programs, Pediatric Therapy Network in Torrance won a $2 million federal grant to start a new Early Head Start program that will serve 112 low-income pregnant women and children up to age 3.  The program will mark the nonprofit's first foray into mainstream education, and will be one of the city's first Early Head Start programs to educate mothers and toddlers before they start kindergarten… The agency operates several programs, but specializes in therapy for children who have developmental disabilities such as autism and cerebral palsy.  They work with about 1,200 children each week, most of them referred from 13 school districts in the South Bay area.  With the new grant funding, the agency will add more than two dozen workers to its current staff of 120, including teachers, social workers and consultants.  The two-year grant will also save the jobs of therapists who would have been let go from the organization's early intervention program funded through the state's regional centers.” [The Daily Breeze, 2/15/10]

 

$4.95 million Recovery Act grant allows San Diego University, local companies to provide education, job training, placement services to regional workers.  “San Diego State University, BIOCOM, San Diego Workforce Partnership, and the Southern California Biotechnology Center at Miramar College today announced the award of a three-year, $4.95 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor aimed at assisting the economic growth of the San Diego region's life sciences industry.  The Biotechnology Readiness, Immersion, Certification and Degrees for Gainful Employment (BRIDGE) project will provide education, training, and placement services to more than 1,000 veterans, incumbent workers and dislocated and unemployed workers within the San Diego region.  The BRIDGE project is a partnership linking training and higher education with employment opportunities that address the regional and state-wide workforce needs of the life sciences industry… The grant is part of more than $225 million in federal stimulus funding awarded by the Department of Labor to create jobs in health care and high growth industries under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.” [PR Newswire, 2/15/10]

 

Arcadia Biosciences received Recovery Act grant to research cause and mitigation of allergies related to Celiac Disease.  “Agricultural technology company Arcadia Biosciences Inc. has received a two-year $855,500 federal stimulus grant to help fund the development of wheat varieties with reduced celiac disease-causing proteins.  Davis-based Arcadia was awarded the Small Business Technology Transfer grant, in partnership with Washington State University, by the National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that results from a toxic reaction to certain proteins found in specific grains, including wheat.  It causes damage to the small intestine and inhibits proper food absorption.” [Sacramento Business Journal, 2/15/10]

 

Santa Cruz county plans for Recovery Act funded solar loan program, create as many as 2,000 jobs.  “What's likely to become the nation's largest solar loan program is in line for $16.5 million of stimulus funds, setting the stage for potentially hundreds of millions of dollars for small energy projects across California, including Santa Cruz County.  The grant, announced Thursday by the California Energy Commission, will fund the administration of a 14-county financing district where homeowners and businesses can pay for solar and other energy efficiency improvements through an assessment on their property taxes... Administrators say the program will go a long way toward curbing greenhouse gas emissions and staving off global warming as well as generate as many as 2,000 jobs in the emerging green economy… The financing will be available for a range of work from solar panel installation to upgrading heating, water systems and windows and doors, many of these projects expected to pay for themselves through energy savings.  In Santa Cruz County, where residents of all four cities and the unincorporated areas will be able to participate, local advocates say the loans will lure as much as $60 million in construction work and hundreds of new jobs.” [Mercury News, 2/11/10]

 

A 52-unit apartment complex for low-income seniors will be built with the aid of Recovery Act funds.  “American Recovery & Reinvestment Act money is been married with Manteca Redevelopment Agency fund and US Bank financing to build a 52-unit apartment complex designed for low-income seniors.  Magnolia Court being developed by Affirmed Housing Group is one of the first projects in California to receive the ARRA funds.  The federal stimulus money is in lieu of Afford Housing being able to secure tax credits from the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee… Magnolia Court will consist of a two-story building with an elevator.  There are 36 one-bedrooms, nine two-bedrooms, and seven studio units planned.  There will be a centrally located commons building, an on-site manager and maintenance staff, and recreation center for residents.” [Manteca Bulletin, 2/7/10]

 

Highway landscaping project underway thanks to funding from Recovery Act.  “The long-awaited Highway 99 landscaping at the twin Highway 120 interchanges is finally in the pipeline.  Work is expected to start within a month on the irrigation portion of the improvements for the Highway 99/Yosemite Avenue (Highway 120) interchange with bids being solicited for the actual landscaping at the same time.  Bids are also being readied for landscaping at the Highway 99/Highway 120 Bypass were up to 1,700 trees and shrubs – primarily native species – are expected to be planted.  It is all being made possible through some $1.4 million in American Recovery Act money that is part of the federal government’s $700 billion stimulus grants.” [Manteca Bulletin, 2/6/10]

 

Low to moderate income housing project will replace WWII era public housing in the fresno area with the help of Recovery Act funding.  “Stimulus dollars are helping to fund a new low to moderate income community in Central Fresno.  Parc Grove Commons broke ground Wednesday near Fresno State and Clinton Avenue.  The $37 million affordable housing community was partially funded through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, and is expected to generate nearly 250 jobs, while housing 215 families.  ‘The Parc Grove Commons project removes deteriorated World War II era public housing and provides much needed quality housing to serve low- to moderate-income families.  The Redevelopment Agency is pleased to have had the opportunity to contribute to this important development,’ said Marlene Murphey, Executive Director of the City of Fresno Redevelopment Agency.  Those behind the project hope it will help to bring a ’new wave of revitalization’ to the neighborhood.” [KMPH, 2/3/10]

 

San Francisco announces Recovery Act funding for energy efficient upgrades throughout the city, an initiative that will save money and put many back to work.  “Energy efficiency may not have the glamour of solar power or wind power, but it’s also a critical and immediate solution to cutting pollution.  Today, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom announced $19.2 million in funding for energy efficiency programs through the San Francisco Energy Watch program and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  In the announcement, Newsom highlighted the creation of new local jobs through the programs and outlined the total energy and financial savings from the San Francisco’s energy efficiency work on city buildings during the last 6 years… From the $7.7 million San Francisco was awarded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for energy efficiency programs that conserve energy in municipal buildings (including health centers, county jail buildings, and cultural centers), $3.1 million will now be used to conduct energy efficiency upgrades to an array of facilities in the city (including the Ella Hill Hutch Center and Southeast Health Center).  These upgrades will result in nearly $3 million dollars in savings each year… The recent expansion of the city’s energy efficiency programs have been aided by JobsNow employees that have been trained to introduce the Energy Watch program to San Francisco businesses.  JobsNow is a stimulus-funded jobs program created by the City to put unemployed citizens to work.  The program has already put nearly 1,700 San Franciscans back to work.” [Clean Technica, 2/4/10]

 

18 community organizations received Recovery Act funding to provide asset building development, food network expansion, and youth training and employment.  “Patricia L. Nickols, CEO of Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County (‘CAPSBC’) announced a countywide partnership to provide services to the public under the auspices of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Community Services Block Grant (‘ARRA CSBG.’)  Eighteen organizations are operating 21 projects in the program areas of asset building and development, food network expansion and youth training and employment. Partners include a mix of community and faith-based organizations, training centers, and a local university.  ‘CAPSBC received a total of $4.2 million in ARRA CSBG funds,’ said Nickols. ‘$1.2 million was awarded on a competitive basis to delegate agencies to serve low-income households while creating or retaining jobs in the community.” [Black Voice News, 2/4/10]

 

72 area children will gain access to early health screenings thanks to Recovery Act funding.  “An increased number of local children under 5 years old will have access to early health screenings and educational enrichment opportunities as a result of over $2 million in federal stimulus funds, officials recently announced.  New opportunities to work with families in San Mateo, East Palo Alto, Menlo Park and at Redwood High School will be created as a result of various grants given to local agencies.  Head Start programs, which support families and young children with help in health and academics, will be expanded locally with the Early Head Start stimulus grants through the Federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The funding is one-time, but local education officials are happy to have the opportunity for training and to help families while the money lasts.  Family Service Agency of San Mateo County received $1.9 million, which will serve up to 72 children between the ages of 6 weeks to 3 years old… Seventeen full- and part-time employees — including teachers, a disability and mental health services manager, a health and nutrition services manager, a clerical worker and driver — will be hired.  About 52 children will be served at one of the nonprofit’s development centers while 20 will be reached via home-based visit programs.” [San Mateo Daily Journal, 2/3/10]

 

Pell Grant funding from the Recovery Act aids California students.  “Under President Obama’s proposed $3.8 trillion federal budget, unveiled yesterday, California students would benefit from a $3.9 billion increase in the state’s Pell Grant funding.  The increase in student aid constitutes an extension of the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus program enacted last February. Obama’s other provisions in the budget attempt to address the $1.267 trillion projected deficit for 2011 — down from $1.556 trillion last year — as well as job losses and a crumbling housing market… In addition to extra funding for education reform, Obama called for Congress and individual states to allocate more money to Medicaid, infrastructure projects, science and technology research, defense and homeland security and U.S. veterans.  Moreover, $300 billion in tax breaks over the next 10 years were proposed for individuals, families and businesses.” [Daily Nexus, 2/2/10]

 

Recovery Act funding will go to building a community dental clinic that will provide residents with easier access to dental care.  “Solano County received word in December that the federal Health Resources and Services Administration was awarding the county federal stimulus dollars under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to build the six-chair, 3,000-square-foot clinic as part of the two-story, 25,000-square-foot William J. Carroll Government Center being built on Monte Vista Avenue in Vacaville.  The $2.2 million for the dental clinic comes out of $1.5 billion made available by the Recovery Act to support health centers nationwide, to expand their capacity and to provide primary and preventive health services to medically underserved populations.  The county anticipates breaking ground on the project this December and opening the clinic in 2012.” [Vacaville Reporter, 1/29/10]

 

President Obama announced a high-speed rail initiative as part of the federal stimulus bill; program will fund improvements existing rail corridors as well.  “President Obama is taking his job-creation message from the State of the Union address on the road Thursday as he travels to Florida to announce the awarding of $8 billion in high-speed rail projects designed to improve or create service in 13 major corridors across the country.  The projects, which span from coast to coast, include startup money to help build trains in California and Florida.  For months, states have been engaged in a bidding war over the money, which comes from the economic stimulus plan approved a year ago… Most of the money will go to improving existing rail service… The administration on Thursday announced that it would award $2.25 billion to help California make a small down payment on its ambitious $45 billion plan to build trains that can go 220 miles an hour… Another $1.25 billion will go to build 84 miles of track from Tampa to Orlando that would allow trains to travel at up to 168 miles per hour… The Florida stretch, which the administration says it expects to be completed by 2014, would have the advantage of showing people what could be achieved quickly.” [New York Times, 1/28/10]

 

Recovery Act-funded high-speed rail project will create 34,000 construction jobs and 450,000 permanent jobs when complete.  “California’s high-speed rail project is getting more than $2.2 billion in money from the federal stimulus program.  Another $99 million is being set aside for intercity rail projects statewide, including more than $29 million to improve Capitol Corridor trains that connect the San Jose and Sacramento areas… Federal officials made the announcement of stimulus funding largesse Jan. 28 at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles.  The Obama administration has committed $8 billion from the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to high-speed rail projects nationwide… In a statement from the California High-Speed Rail Authority, the stimulus funds were described as ‘vital to the continuation of California’s high-speed rail project.’  It also touted its economic development impact.  High-speed rail is predicted to generate 160,000 construction-related jobs, including about 34,000 along the San Jose-to-San Francisco segment, and 450,000 permanent jobs after completion.” [Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal, 1/28/10]

 

City of Monterey will replace lighting along many city streets with funds provided by the Recovery Act.  “City gets $1.5M loan for lights.  Monterey has received a $1.5 million loan to improve lighting throughout the city.  The loan was granted by the California Energy Commission and paid for by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the federal stimulus. The loan principal and its 1 percent interest is expected to be repaid in 15 years with money that will be saved by improved energy efficiency.  Lighting improvements will be made along city streets, the Coastal Trail and in the Lighthouse Avenue tunnel.” [Monterey County Herald, 1/28/10]

 

Recovery Act funds go toward creating jobs in Northern California with projects in construction, forest health, and maintenance of park facilities.  “The U.S. Forest Service's Vallejo-based Pacific Southwest Region has received more than $185 million in stimulus money to help create jobs in Northern California, the agency said.  The agency got $185.2 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to fund projects involving hazardous fuels reduction, forest health, construction and maintenance of facilities, roads and trails, abandoned mines and wood-to-energy projects, an agency spokesman said.  John Heil said the projects will likely create at least hundreds of Northern California jobs, though exact numbers are so far unknown.” [Contra Costa Times, 1/26/10]

 

Recovery Act funding provides free employment advice for California job-seekers.  “The Golden Sierra Workforce Investment Board has teamed up with the California Employers Association to use $220,000 in federal stimulus funds to provide free employment advice and support to area businesses and job seekers.  The partners have launched a human relations hotline and a series of business assistance workshops for employers in Placer, El Dorado and Alpine counties.  They also offer a free networking forum for unemployed professionals in Placer County.  The hotline gives employers unlimited free access to human resource consultants during regular business hours. The service provides information about employment and labor law, and will help businesses solve issues related to employee recruitment, retention, safety and discipline.  In addition to the free hotline, 12 business workshops will be offered to all employers in the three counties to help them comply with labor laws.” [Sacramento Business Journal, 1/25/10]

 

Construction begins on forth bore of Caldecott Tunnel, a Recovery Act project that will create more than 5,000 jobs.  “Federal, state and local officials gathered in Orinda Friday to celebrate the beginning of construction on the fourth bore of the Caldecott Tunnel.  Rep. John Garamendi, D-Walnut Creek, joined members of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the state Legislature, Caltrans, and local transportation agencies at the groundbreaking ceremony for the project that will add a fourth bore to the tunnel connecting Oakland and Contra Costa County via state Highway 24.  The four-year project, which costs $420 million, will alleviate traffic congestion in the area and is expected to create jobs for more than 5,000 construction workers.  John Porcari, deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation, said the money ‘is being invested in more than just a tunnel.’  The project represents "investing in jobs, here and now today, when we need them,’ Porcari said. ‘We're investing in an easier, safer, and less congested trip for the 160,000 daily commuters when this project is finished, and by reducing congestion here in the East Bay, we're investing in a greener environment.’  Nearly half the project is being funded by money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The $197.5 million in federal stimulus money is an example of how ‘the federal government was there when we needed it,’ Garamendi said.” [Pleasanton Weekly, 1/25/10]

 

Oroville will receive Recovery Act funding to assist small businesses with development marketing, revenue projections, and accounting documents.  “Oroville was one of two applicants in California to receive a grant from a $4 million pot of federal stimulus funding for business development projects in rural areas.  Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Friday the 44 recipients of grants nationwide to create jobs.  The money is part of the Department of Agriculture's funding though the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help businesses… The city will use the $60,000 grant to help small businesses develop marketing plans, revenue projections and accounting documents, said Rick Farley, Enterprise Zone and Business Assistance Coordinator for the city.  ‘Mainly, it's to help them with their Quick Books,’ Farley said.  Often when small businesses come in to apply for loans, the city has to refer them to an accountant to prepare the needed documents, Farley said.  Large businesses have controllers and accountants to prepare financial statements, but small business owners are often more focused on their products or services and don't know how to prepare income statements or balance sheets, Farley said.” [Chico Enterprise-Record, 1/23/10]

 

The Tahoe Truckee Unified School District will use Recovery Act funds to expand sierra continuation high school’s infant-toddler center.  “In an effort to help local mothers, school district trustees unanimously approved a stimulus grant this month to provide more childcare for parents who are income eligible, graduating students, or for district employees.  The Tahoe Truckee Unified School District will use the $1.152 million, to expand Sierra Continuation High School's infant-toddler center or STEPP program (Sierra Teen Education & Parenting Program).  The expansion will add 12 new openings for infants and toddlers at the STEPP day care center, three new child development positions and another portable for STEPP facilities.  The additional staffing and enrollment are expected to last 18 months if no additional federal funding is redirected for its support.  Placer Community Action Council's KidZKount group, donated the money to the district from a grant they received from the Obama administration's American Recovery & Reinvestment Act, a stimulus grant meant to boost the economy through community development.” [Sierra Sun, 1/21/10]

 

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians received Recovery Act funding for road renovation and widening.  “The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has gotten $1.8 million in federal stimulus money to improve Bob Hope Drive.  Nancy Conrad, a spokeswoman for the tribe, said Wednesday the road work involves widening, moving power lines and realigning some of the land on the undeveloped or west side of Bob Hope Drive... Federal officials made the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds available to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to fund projects nationwide under the Indian Reservation Roads program.  The funds are designed to help tribes improve roads on reservation lands… ‘We are grateful to be able to bring some assistance to the city of Rancho Mirage, and as a result, help support new construction jobs in the valley.’  Rancho Mirage Mayor Gordon Moller said the city has been working closely with the tribe since it learned of the potential to use federal stimulus money for the project.  The city was instrumental in preparing the project's plan specifications, and will be the project construction managers to see it through to completion… The funding, hitting more than $1.8 million, will be added to another $726,000 of investment by the tribe.” [The Desert Sun, 1/21/10]

 

New Recovery Act Grant will train 525 people for medical jobs.  “An economic stimulus grant of nearly $1 million will help train 525 people in medical jobs, Tulare County officials said… Job-training awards totaling $10.7 million went to 13 counties in California, including Tulare County.  ‘What a great surprise for Tulare County, I think,’ county Supervisor Steve Worthley said.  ‘I think it's badly needed if a county with just 1 percent of the population of the state qualified for nearly 10 percent of the funds.’  The $999,931 for the county will pay for medical-training programs at adult schools in Tulare, Visalia, Dinuba and Porterville, as well as at Porterville College.  The programs will be free to students, said Adam Peck, executive director of the Tulare County Workforce Investment Board.  His agency applied for the grant in November… State officials said they hope the funds will help get more than 2,100 people off unemployment rosters.  Peck said those undergoing the training have good prospects for landing jobs because employment in medical fields in Tulare County has held up better than elsewhere.” [Tulare Advance-Register, 1/21/10]

 

Fresno and Tulare counties received Recovery Act money as part of the state’s effort to train 2,100 people for jobs in a variety of high-demand industries.  “About $2 million in federal stimulus money is heading to Fresno and Tulare counties to help train people for in-demand occupations.  Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's California Recovery Task Force announced Wednesday that the Fresno Career Development Institute will receive $1 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, while Tulare County is getting $999,931.  The two agencies are among 13 that will share just under $11 million aimed at training about 2,100 people statewide for work in such fields as network administration, systems engineering, alternative fuel mechanics, paramedics, pharmacy assistants, home health aides, warehouse specialists and logistics clerks.” [Fresno Bee, 1/20/10]

 

Berkeley Laboratory using Recovery Act to create positions to support research on cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and radioactive decontamination.  “Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has been awarded $12.8 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for research into cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, radioactive decontamination and a variety of other health conditions.  The grants bring Berkeley Lab’s total Recovery Act funding to more than $240 million in areas covering energy, computing and general science, as well as infrastructure projects.  The NIH grants will go to 14 individual research projects ranging from disease investigation to the development of tools for medical researchers.  ‘The Recovery Act grants from NIH have allowed us to create quite a few new positions for scientists, technicians, research associates and postdoctoral fellows, as well as retain some jobs,’ said Joe Gray, Associate Laboratory Director for Life Sciences.  ‘We’re helping to train the nation’s next generation of scientists while also doing important research in critical areas of human health that we may not have been able to do without these funds.’ ” [Berkeley National Laboratory Press Release, 1/19/10]

 

Recovery Act funding granted to five Silicon Valley high-efficiency lighting projects.  “The Department of Energy announced more than $37 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to support high-efficiency solid-state lighting projects, and recipients include five Silicon Valley companies.  In the area of core technology research, Cambrios Technologies Corp. of Sunnyvale will share $4 million with two other companies.  In the product development field, Philips Lumileds Lighting Co LLC of San Jose will share $10.3 million with five other companies.  In the U.S. manufacturing category, Applied Materials Inc. of Santa Clara, Philips Lumileds of San Jose and Ultratech Inc. of San Jose will share $23.5 million with five other companies.  Solid-state lighting, which uses light-emitting diodes and organic light-emitting diodes instead of incandescent bulbs, has the potential to be 10 times more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent lighting, the Department of Energy said.” [Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal, 1/20/10]

 

Small business lending in Los Angeles rises “sharply” thanks to Recovery Act.  “Small-business lending picked up sharply during the last three months of 2009, as measured by loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, the agency reported Friday. Lenders distributed twice the amount of money in SBA-backed loans nationwide last quarter compared with the same period in 2008, the agency said. ‘We are very pleased and very encouraged to see banks slowly come back into the fold and start lending again,’ said Alberto G. Alvarado, the Los Angeles SBA district director…. Alvarado credited the boost in small-business lending to the Obama administration's stimulus bill, signed in February, as well as moves by the SBA to cut fees businesses must pay for loans and to encourage banks to start lending again.” [LA Times, 1/15/10]

 

Monterey Ranger District uses Recovery Act funds for six trail positions for local hiking trail projects.  “The Monterey Ranger District will be using federal economic stimulus funds to fill six temporary trail positions for local trail projects. The positions will be filled as needed throughout the 2010 field season, which runs from Feb. 1 to Sept. 30. Each position will be funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for up to six months.” [The Californian, 1/19/10]

 

California Cities receive HUD’s Recovery Act funding to combat foreclosures and provide relief to Californian families.  “The city of Indio has received more than $8 million in federal stimulus dollars to help renovate foreclosed homes… ‘The foreclosure crisis has not only hurt families, but has also depressed local economies, affected our state's budget and led to the deterioration of many neighborhoods,’ said Governor Schwarzenegger.  ‘This money will help provide prompt relief and assistance to individuals, families and communities while also helping create jobs throughout California.’  The $8,130,000 is coming from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Housing and Urban Development Department (HUD)… The money can be used to acquire land and property, demolish or rehabilitate abandoned properties, and/or offer downpayment and closing cost assistance to low-to-middle-income homebuyers.” [KPSP, 1/14/10]

 

Los Angeles received Recovery Act funding to improve broadband connections and access to the internet.  “The Obama administration on Wednesday released $7.5 million in federal stimulus funds to give more Los Angeles residents free broadband access to the Internet.  U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said the investment is intended to upgrade and expand 188 computer centers throughout the city; give residents better access to job search engines, online educational and training courses and other Web-based information.  ‘This critical investment will expand computer and Internet service access to Los Angeles residents most in need, helping to make them full participants in today's 21st century information economy,’ Locke said during a news conference at the South Los Angeles WorkSource Center.” [Los Angeles Daily News, 1/14/10]

 

Recovery Act credit of up to $2,500 per student for post-secondary education could benefit CSU families.  “A new education credit could benefit families with children in the California State University's system.  For the tax years 2009 and 2010, there is a new post-secondary education credit called the American Opportunity Tax Credit.  The tax credit created by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, or stimulus plan, of 2009 is a modified version of the Hope Credit, which has existed since 1997.  The tax credit may have several benefits for CSU students or their parents. The maximum amount of the credit is $2,500 per student, an increase from previous years.  The credit can be claimed for the first four years of post-secondary education, doubling the previous duration of the Hope Credit.” [Monterey County Herald, 1/14/10]

 

$3.3 million of Recovery Act funds go to highway widening in Sacramento.  “State funds are headed to Sutter County to widen a section of Highway 99 to Sacramento.  The California Transportation Commission on Wednesday allotted $65.1 million for the widening, which would continue the gradual enlargement of 99 from two to four lanes to keep up with growing commuter traffic.  Part of the funding will cover the cost of a parallel span to an existing bridge over the Feather River, about 20 miles south of Yuba City… $3.3 million comes from last year's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.” [Appeal Democrat, 1/14/10]

 

Solar panel manufacturer Amonix announced it will create 436 jobs thanks to Recovery Act.  “Solar panel manufacturer Amonix… will create a total of 436 clean energy manufacturing jobs in Nevada and Arizona based on its award of $9.5 million in stimulus funding as part of the federal Recovery Act’s Advanced Energy Manufacturing Tax Credit. The company was granted $5.9 million for manufacturing work in Nevada, and $3.6 million for work in Arizona.  Amonix, headquartered in Seal Beach, California, designs and manufactures concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) solar power systems that require less water, use land better, and produce more energy per acre than any other solar technology.  The stimulus funding will be used to expand permanent manufacturing operations in Nevada and Arizona.  The company will begin construction of its new manufacturing facility in Nevada by the end of 2010.  When completed in the first half of 2011, that facility will create 269 new jobs for the state.  The Arizona facility, which will create 167 new jobs, is pegged for a 2011 construction start, with completion scheduled by the end of that year.” [Business Wire, 1/14/10]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to repair levees on the Santa Maria River.  “Representatives of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Los Angeles office will explain the $40 million project, which is intended to strengthen 6.2 miles of the existing south levee to fix deficiencies and reduce risk to life and property…Repairs to the faulty structure are needed to ensure that a rain-swollen Santa Maria River does not flood nearby urban areas and farm land in the Santa Maria Valley…In April 2009, $40.2 million money from President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was committed to the corps to fully fund the levee repairs…Officials have estimated that 325 jobs will be directly created from the levee project and 565 more will be created in industries supplying or supporting the construction, performing operations and maintenance activities, and selling goods and services to the workers and their families.” [Santa Maria Times, 1/13/10]

 

Recovery Act funds will enable the I-215 widening project to continue without interruption.  “The $700 million widening of the I-215 Freeway would have been interrupted - perhaps for years - if not for the arrival of federal stimulus money, local transportation officials said Tuesday.  The four-phase project to widen 7.5 miles of freeway from the I-10 interchange to University Parkway likely would have stopped about halfway, after phase two, if not for $128 million in federal money made available to help combat the recession. Instead, construction of the fourth and final phase of the project got underway this week. ‘At this point, it could have stopped at Rialto (Avenue) if not for the stimulus,’ said Rose Melgoza, spokeswoman for the California Department of Transportation. Caltrans and Sanbag share oversight of the project, which has been in the works for about 20 years... After a lengthy planning period, construction began in February 2007 with building of the 5th Street bridge. The entire widening is expected to be completed in mid-2013. In the end, the project actually benefitted from the recession. In addition to gaining stimulus money, the widening was originally estimated to cost about $800 million. But the sour economy depressed prices for construction materials and labor, paring the cost by $100 million.” [Contra Costa Times, 1/12/10]

 

Oxnard is set to receive Recovery Act funds to increase energy efficiency, reduce energy use, and create green jobs.  “The city of Oxnard will get almost $1.7 million in federal money to increase energy efficiency, reduce energy use and create green jobs.  The money comes from Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant funds, part of the massive stimulus bill passed last year, according to Rep. Lois Capps, D-Santa Barbara.  The grants are administered by the U.S. Department of Energy and designed to stimulate the green economy by increasing spending on energy efficiency and the use of renewable power from sources such as wind and solar.  ‘Oxnard has energy-efficiency and conservation initiatives lined up and ready to go,’ Capps said in a prepared statement.  ‘This funding will help get many of them off the ground, creating jobs and helping address another of our nation’s most pressing needs — reducing our dangerous dependence on dirty and expensive fossil fuels.’” [Ventura County Star, 1/12/10]

 

Hermosa Beach has received nearly $1.3 million in Recovery Act funding from the EPA and State Water Resources Control Board.  “The City of Hermosa Beach has received nearly $1.3 million in federal Recovery Act (economic stimulus) funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and State Water Resources Control Board.  The funding from EPA’s Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund supports improved stormwater management through a ‘Greenstreet’ retrofit of Pier Avenue.  The infiltration and storm-drain elements that this project introduces are uniquely different from traditional stormwater management systems.  In Southern California, urban stormwater runoff is the #1 cause of pollution in coastal waters.  Stormwater runoff is made worse by the density of  impervious surfaces in urban areas like roads, buildings and parking lots.  ‘The City of Hermosa Beach should be commended for applying innovative low impact development tools to address urban runoff and protect beach users,’ said John Kemmerer, associate Water Division director for EPA’s Pacific Southwest region.  ‘Retrofit projects like this are particularly challenging.  This is an example of how cities can address stormwater pollution in a sustainable manner and at the same time create beautiful public spaces for their residents.” [BYM Marine Environment News, 1/11/10]

 

Chico received Recovery Act funds for pruning trees in Bidwell Park; project will employ four local workers.  “The city of Chico was recently awarded $100,000 in federal stimulus dollars to help prune trees in Bidwell Park, with work on the project already under way.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding was finalized in December, Chico Urban Forest Manager Denice Britton said, and tree pruning began Monday.  With the city facing budget cuts over recent years, Britton said all city departments have been forced to trim expenses, with the pruning of Bidwell Park trees on the list of cuts this year.  However, after receiving a notice that federal stimulus money was available for ‘shovel-ready’ projects, Britton applied for the ARRA money and was successful in obtaining the funding… Crews with Fallen Leaf Tree Service of Sacramento will be removing dead branches and thinning limbs on the trees, reducing the weight of the branches and decreasing the potential for broken limbs. A condition of the grant funding requires that workers from Butte County be hired to work on the project.  Britton said Fallen Leaf Tree Service has employed four local workers.  She said the project will run approximately one year, with the tree workers working for a period of time each month to trim back the trees.” [Chico Enterprise Record, 1/8/10]

 

Recovery Act paid for a project to ease traffic congestion in Placer, Sacramento, and El Dorado counties.  “Located under the pavement, the sensors provide real-time information for Caltrans at their traffic center in Rancho Cordova. Media traffic reporters use the information over the air or on the Web to help guide drivers during the busiest parts of the day. And motorists can find the information at the Caltrans Web site.  A total of $1.2 million in President Barack Obama’s Recovery Act funding was used to install a total of 18 electronic sensors and under-pavement loop detectors on Highway 65, Highway 99, Interstate 80 and Interstate 5 at key locations in Placer, Sacramento and El Dorado counties.  The work was recently completed by a Sacramento general contractor within budget and is part of $2.1 billion California is receiving for Recovery Act projects… A Caltrans statement said that the sensor projects and others around the state are being completed sooner than expected. ‘Thanks to this Recover Act funding project, commuters in Northern California will be able to plan their routes better to reduce their travel time,’ said Caltrans Director Randy Iwasaki.” [Roseville Press Tribune, 1/6/10]

 

Los Angeles County will use Recovery Act funds to train workers in green jobs skills.  “Labor Secretary Hilda Solis announced $100 million in green jobs training grants Wednesday, and California grant recipients will get more than $16.5 million of the money.  The grants, authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, are designed to support training programs that help dislocated workers and others find jobs in expanding green industries and related occupations.  ‘Finally, people are concentrating on creating jobs,’ said Cynthia Kurtz, president and CEO of the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership.  ‘They are realizing that training is a critical piece of that, so we are delighted overall.’  H-CAP Inc, a national union/employer coalition for health care training, is set to receive more than $4.6 million of the money - $723,000 of which will be spent in Los Angeles County.  ‘We're going to be working with the Los Angeles County public health system and with Kaiser Permanente to train environmental service workers,’ said Laura Chenven, H-CAP's national coordinator.  ‘Housekeepers in hospitals could be the watchdogs on energy, water and waste.’  The plan, she said, is to provide more training for the employees.  ‘We want to create a new type of environmental service worker – and they will be training other workers as they come in to do this green work.  We're working to make these jobs more attractive,’ Chenven said.  The pay won't initially be any higher, but the new skills they acquire will be transferable to other green kinds of jobs, she said.” [Whittier Daily News, 1/6/10]

 

Recovery Act will pay for ironworkers’ training on wind turbine technology.  “Another $1.9 million piece of the grant money is earmarked for the National Ironworkers and Employers Apprenticeship Training and Journeyman Upgrading Fund.  That money will be spread among California, Illinois, New York, Texas and Utah.  The money will provide training to ironworkers who work on wind turbine projects that generate renewable energy.  The technology for wind-power systems is constantly changing and the work is often dangerous, as workers labor to put awkward pieces of equipment in place during high-wind situations and other inclement weather.  ‘Prior to the recession, the work was incredible because construction was booming,’ said Paul Martinez, who coordinates training activities for Ironworkers Local 433 and Local 416 in La Palma.  ‘But the bottom fell out last year, and now with cuts in the state budget... it's really affected us.’  Still, Martinez said there's plenty of work to come, despite the economic downturn.  ‘Right now, there are 100 windmills that scheduled to go up in the Lancaster/Palmdale area,’ he said.  ‘We're just waiting for the permitting.  And in Palm Springs there's a huge number that are supposed to go in.’” [Whittier Daily News, 1/6/10]

 

Recovery Act paid for a project to ease traffic congestion in Placer, Sacramento, and El Dorado Counties.  “Located under the pavement, the sensors provide real-time information for Caltrans at their traffic center in Rancho Cordova.  Media traffic reporters use the information over the air or on the Web to help guide drivers during the busiest parts of the day. And motorists can find the information at the Caltrans Web site.  A total of $1.2 million in President Barack Obama’s Recovery Act funding was used to install a total of 18 electronic sensors and under-pavement loop detectors on Highway 65, Highway 99, Interstate 80 and Interstate 5 at key locations in Placer, Sacramento and El Dorado counties.  The work was recently completed by a Sacramento general contractor within budget and is part of $2.1 billion California is receiving for Recovery Act projects.  Mark Dinger, Caltrans spokesman, said the new sensors will help drivers to gauge when and where to make their morning and evening commutes, as well as trips through the Sacramento-Placer-El Dorado region during the day and night... For Caltrans, the information received at Rancho Cordova can be used to deploy units quicker to hot spots and – over the long term – to gather numbers for planning transportation projects in the future, he said.  The information is also used on electronic signs to give drivers a better indication of how many minutes it will take to arrive at a destination, Dinger said... ” [Roseville Press Tribune, 1/6/10]

 

Los Angeles County will use Recovery Act funds to train workers in green jobs skills.  “Labor Secretary Hilda Solis announced $100 million in green jobs training grants Wednesday, and California grant recipients will get more than $16.5 million of the money.  The grants, authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, are designed to support training programs that help dislocated workers and others find jobs in expanding green industries and related occupations…  H-CAP Inc, a national union/employer coalition for health care training, is set to receive more than $4.6 million of the money - $723,000 of which will be spent in Los Angeles County.  ‘We're going to be working with the Los Angeles County public health system and with Kaiser Permanente to train environmental service workers,’ said Laura Chenven, H-CAP's national coordinator. ‘Housekeepers in hospitals could be the watchdogs on energy, water and waste.’ The plan, she said, is to provide more training for the employees.  ‘We want to create a new type of environmental service worker - and they will be training other workers as they come in to do this green work.  We're working to make these jobs more attractive,’ Chenven said.  The pay won't initially be any higher, but the new skills they acquire will be transferable to other green kinds of jobs, she said.” [Whittier Daily News, 1/6/10]

 

More than $1 billion from Recovery Act is “flowing freely” into the Bay Area, flooding university research coffers, boosting transportation projects, improving infrastructure, and more. “ In Oakland, $50,000 is going to a nonprofit best known for its fiery performance art.  In Napa County, $54 million is going to protect the tracks on which a train hauls tourists through vineyards as they sip chardonnay.… In Sonoma County, $272,578 is going to provide housing assistance to two tribes that reap millions a year from lucrative gambling casinos, including one in Contra Costa County…   In Berkeley, $499,384 is going for field studies of what kind of booze young people pound down in bars and other hot spots.…  More than $1 billion from the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is flowing freely into the Bay Area, flooding university research coffers and boosting transportation projects such as the long-awaited Caldecott Tunnel expansion and the BART-Oakland Airport people mover, funding high-tech baggage screening equipment at San Francisco International Airport and improvements to Caltrain in San Mateo County.” [Contra Costa Times, 1/3/09]

 

Recovery Act funding goes to Bay Area jobs program that is “almost too good to be true.”  “Many are wondering what has happened to all the federal stimulus money, but ABC7 has found some of it has gone to job creation. Bay Area counties are racing to help both employers and people looking for work take advantage of some of that cash.  The money is part of a jobs program that seems almost too good to be true.  Jairo Hernandez and Michelle Singletary work at Laundry Locker -- a dry cleaning and laundry business in San Francisco.  Their employer is a private, for-profit business, but their salaries are paid by the federal government.  ‘I'm working every day for 40 hours a week.  I get my paychecks on time. I'm able to support my daughter without no help, no problem,’ says Singletary… It works like this: The federal stimulus bill set aside $5 billion to subsidize jobs for needy families.  California gets $1.8 billion of that to dole out to counties which can use the money to get unemployed people into jobs.  San Francisco was one of the first to get the program off and running.  ‘We've been averaging about 100 job placements a week,’ says Rhorer.  The program is targeted at people who are either unemployed or part-time workers with a low income, and you must be a parent, with a child under 18 years old.  ‘I have four children, so it's definitely imperative that I have a job right now,’ says Tasha Spencer. Spencer is a single mother now working as a public service aid for San Francisco's Human Services Department. Her salary is paid by the Jobs Now program.  ‘It's a lifesaver.  I would not be working if I did not have this job,’ says Spencer.  The extra workers are a big help to local governments strapped for cash, but the place officials hope the program will grow most is in the private sector.” [ABC 7, 12/31/09]

 

Recovery Act funds improve highways in Placer, Sacramento, and El Dorado Counties. “Federal stimulus funds for traffic sensors are aiding Placer County commuters on Highway 65.  Located under the pavement, the sensors provide real-time information for Caltrans at their traffic center in Rancho Cordova.  Media traffic reporters use the information over the air or on the Web to help guide drivers during the busiest parts of the day...     A total of $1.2 million in President Barack Obama’s Recovery Act funding was used to install a total of 18 electronic sensors and under-pavement loop detectors on Highway 65, Highway 99, Interstate 80 and Interstate 5 at key locations in Placer, Sacramento and El Dorado counties.  The work was recently completed by a Sacramento general contractor within budget and is part of $2.1 billion California is receiving for Recovery Act projects.  Mark Dinger, Caltrans spokesman, said the new sensors will help drivers to gauge when and where to make their morning and evening commutes, as well as trips through the Sacramento-Placer-El Dorado region during the day and night.” [Roseville Journal, 1/2/10]

 

Two Recovery Act-funded road projects near Maryville have been completed. “Federal stimulus dollars paved the way for completion of a major construction project on Highway 99. Caltrans announced completion Wednesday of the $12.9 million project to repave 10 miles of Highway 99, from just south of Riego Road to north of Catlett Road.  The project improved the smoothness and safety for the 37,000 vehicles that drive the highway each day, said Caltrans spokesman Mark Dinger… Another Recovery Act project recently completed in the Mid-Valley was a resurfacing project on 3.2 miles of Highway 20 east of Marysville that 10,700 drivers use every day.  The $950,000 project, funded totally by the Recovery Act, was finished in October… It also improves safety during rainy weather because it prevents water from pooling on the road surface, Dinger said.” [Appeal Democrat, 12/30/09]

 

California used Recovery Act funds for installation of traffic congestion prevention system, which has now been completed.  “Thanks to stimulus funds Sacramento area drivers will now be able to make better-informed travel decisions.  Tuesday, Caltrans announced the completion new traffic monitoring systems installations at select locations on four Northern California highways.  The project was financed entirely by President Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009... The $1.2 million project installed 18 electronic sensors and under-pavement loop detectors on Interstate 5 and Interstate 80 and State Routes 65 and 99 at key locations in Sacramento, Placer and Yolo counties. Prime contractor M&M Electric of Sacramento completed this project on time and within budget. These traffic-monitoring systems provide real-time traffic volume data, which can be used by motorists to make informed travel decisions.” [Daily Democrat, 12/30/09]

 

Simi Valley uses Recovery Act money to obtain new bus shelters. “All Simi bus shelters in Simi Valley will be replaced with new upgraded ones with the help of federal stimulus funds.  The Simi Valley City Council approved this month the replacement of the city’s 27 bus shelters as well as adding five new ones and replacing 188 bus stop signs throughout the city. Concrete benches will also be replaced with new decorative steel benches on Tapo Street and Los Angeles Avenue, as part of the city’s revitalization efforts on those streets.  About $484,000 will be needed for the project, and the City Council in June agreed to take those funds from $3 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money it received for transit projects.  More than 400,000 passengers use the transit system in Simi Valley each year, and the bus shelters in the city are more than 15 years old, obsolete and deteriorating, said Samantha Argabrite, the city’s community service specialist… The 27 replacement shelters and the five new ones will be 4-foot-by-10-foot pre-fabricated aluminum shelters, and will have new decorative benches, solar-paneled lighting, punched steel rear walls, and solar-powered advertising panels on each side.” [VC Star, 12/27/09]

 

The Fresno City Council approved a plan to use Recovery Act money for workers to help staff parks departments’ facilities that were facing budget cuts.  “With help from federal and county officials, the Fresno City Council on Thursday rescued neighborhood centers that were on the budget chopping block...  Council members unanimously approved a plan under which Fresno County would provide federal stimulus money for 73 workers to help staff Parks Department facilities that were facing budget cuts.  Mayor Ashley Swearengin last month unveiled a plan to close a $28 million general-fund budget gap that included closing four neighborhood centers.  Operating hours at seven other centers were to be drastically reduced, essentially putting them out of commission… The projected cost is about $860,000 -- most of it coming from federal stimulus money.  Cooper said the new workers could be screened, trained and on the job by late January.  He said they will help in areas such as computer lab, arts and crafts, and leadership training.” [Fresno Bee, 12/17/09]

 

Using Recovery Act funds, Glenn County plans to put more than 50 local welfare recipients back to work; 30 jobs will be created in the public sector and an additional 25 will be created for private businesses.  “Using about $1 million in federal ‘stimulus’ money, Glenn County plans to put more than 50 local welfare recipients back to work beginning next week.  The county's Human Resource Agency will use the $1,035,000 not only to fund the subsidized work program, but also to purchase clothing for welfare children, either for school or for potential job interviews depending on their age, according to Scott Gruendl, the county's health services director... About 30 jobs will be created in the public sector and an additional 25 will be created for private businesses, Gruendl said.  The potential jobs range from construction to clerical work… The funding would be used only to create new jobs and not replace old ones, which was a brief sticking point on Tuesday for Supervisor John Viegas.  ‘It's particularly good for private sector businesses that probably need to hire a person, but can't afford to right now,’ Gruendl said.  A few people will begin work around Christmas, but Gruendl said the ‘vast majority’ of the positions would be filled after the New Year.” [Orlando Press Register, 12/15/09]

 

Redwood City based Silver Spring Networks has received Recovery Act funds to expand to nearly 600 employees.  “Silver Spring Networks raised $100 million more in venture capital, bringing its total to $267 million.  The Redwood City smart grid technology company took just 30 days to raise and close the oversubscribed funding round. Silver Spring is hiring rapidly.  The company has about 425 employees and its CEO Scott Lang has said the company will employ close to 600 in 2010.  Silver Spring’s utility customers have so far been awarded more than $809 million in federal stimulus money toward smart grid projects totaling $1.5 billion... The $100 million in new financing will help the company more quickly develop new smart grid applications and expand its global footprint, Jenson said.” [San Francisco Business Times, 12/15/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will opens up 28 jobs at A Santa Cruz Head Start.  “Santa Cruz Community Counseling Center plans a job fair Saturday to fill 28 jobs with Head Start and Early Head Start funded by a $2 million federal stimulus grant… The funding will add 130 slots for Early Head Start for kids to age 3, a major jump from the 40 currently available, and 44 slots for Head Start for kids 3-5 compared to 420 now.  Existing program sites are in Watsonville and Santa Cruz.  ‘This is the first expansion of Head Start in over 10 years,’ said Cynthia Wells, Santa Cruz Community Counseling Center's director of child and family development programs... She expects current employees may apply for some of the new positions.  The timetable calls for hiring to be completed by mid-January with child care open to families starting in February.  The expansion adds jobs in Aptos, where the Elena Baskin Child Care Center will reopen at Cabrillo College after being shuttered due to state budget cuts, and in Watsonville, Mid-County and San Lorenzo Valley.  In San Lorenzo Valley, the funding will bring 10 Head Start slots for preschoolers and 20 Early Head Start slots for kids up to age 3, taking advantage of the San Lorenzo Valley Children's Center in Ben Lomond as well as home-based child-care programs.” [Santa Cruz Sentinel, 12/15/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded jobs program will help low-income residents in Butte County obtain federally subsidized public and private jobs.  “Butte County is going to secure a piece of a $1.8 billion federal jobs program.  Cathi Grams, Butte County director of the Department of Employment and Social Services, aims to place the poor and individuals who are currently on some form of welfare, as well as those who have exhausted their eligibility for those programs, in federally subsidized public and private jobs… While participants can work in both the private and government sector, they are all technically employees of the Private Industry Council… The funding for the program comes from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Stimulus Funds and covers 80 percent of the costs.  The 20 percent the county picks up is covered by ‘in-kind’ services, said Grams… There are about 250 job slots to be filled, and, according to Grams, the average employee will make something in the area of $10 an hour. The goal is to provide the employee with experiences and job skills that will make it easier for the individual to find work in the future.  Also, it is hoped at least some of the workers will find permanent jobs with their temporary employers.” [The Enterprise Record, 12/13/09]

 

Central Valley Health Centers that serve needy populations – from seasonal farm workers, recent Southeast Asian immigrants, and the homeless – receive Recovery Act assistance.  “The Obama administration Wednesday injected $9.5 million into the Golden Valley Health Centers so the Merced-based medical system can build a clinic.  The money will fund a 27,000-square-foot structure planned for south Merced.  Adjacent to several existing Golden Valley facilities on 11 acres, the new clinic will include geriatric care, specialty services and a training center... The grants announced Wednesday are for 85 community health centers.    Outside of Merced, the only other Central Valley organization to receive funding was Clinica Sierra Vista, a Bakersfield-based agency that operates clinics in Fresno.  Clinica received $4 million and will use about $1.2 million to finish a dental center at Elm Community Health Center in Fresno, said Clinica's chief executive Stephen Schilling.  An additional $1.4 million will pay to remodel the Elm center, a process that will include making space for a pharmacy, Schilling said.  Golden Valley and the other grant recipients all serve needy populations.  For Golden Valley's existing 25 clinics, that population includes seasonal farmworkers, Southeast Asian immigrants and the homeless.  The 85 grants distributed Wednesday, ranging from a high of $12 million to a low of $790,000, were selected from among some 600 applicants.” [Fresno Bee, 12/10/09]

 

Altadena Head Start will use Recovery Act funding to hire 29 new teachers and fund the enrollment of 114 more children and pregnant women into its programs.  “Federal stimulus dollars will mean more spaces for children in a local Head Start program and new jobs, officials said.  The $1.6 million grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will allow the Center for Community and Family Services in Altadena to enroll 114 more children and pregnant women in its Head Start, Early Head Start, and pre- and post-natal programs, said Wassy Tesfa, its Head Start administrator.  It also will pay for 29 new teachers, in-home educators and consultants, allowing the center to expand its services beyond the 60 children and women it now assists, she said…. The center offers full-day educational classes for infants and toddlers.  It sends out home educators, who weekly visit parents to educate them about early childhood development.  And it provides health-education services to expectant mothers, from pregnancy through post-delivery… With the new injection of stimulus funding, a third facility, Mother's Club Learning Center, will begin offering classes, officials said.  Such classes have been shown to greatly improve a child's learning in the later school years, said Judy Cashell, the center's child development administrator.” [Pasadena Star-News, 11/29/09]

 

SBA loans see dramatic spike thanks to Recovery Act incentives.  “The stimulus dollars set aside to fund small business lending incentives ran out on Nov. 23.  That capped a week-long rush leading up to the deadline that resulted in more than $1 billion in Small Business Administration loans being approved, government officials said.  That was more than the monthly volume for the first six months of the fiscal year.  The rush was triggered by two provisions that were attractive to lenders and borrowers.  The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act in February boosted the maximum guarantee on SBA loans to 90 percent from 75 percent, while reducing or eliminating fees charged to borrowers… SBA incentives brought results: Roxann Burns, SBA manager at Heritage Bank of Commerce, said of all the different tools offered by the SBA, the incentives were the most effective.  Burns is worried that if the incentives sunset, the borrowers will go the way of the guarantees and fees waivers.  She’s not alone.  ‘We feel very strongly that these incentives had a huge impact on the increase in loan volume for us as well as the industry,’ said Tom Burke, senior vice president in Wells Fargo & Co.’s SBA lending division.  Burke said loan volume was up about 3 percent year-over-year as a result of the stimulus incentives, the Wachovia merger and the fact that other SBA lenders either retreated from the market or cut back significantly.” [San Jose Business Journal, 11/27/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded jobs training program will serve 5,000 students at Los Rios colleges.  “Inside a classroom at Folsom Lake College this week, students were learning medical terminology – and hoping to turn around their fortunes… All of them are benefitting from the federal stimulus act, which has sent $10 million into Los Rios Community Colleges for job training programs as part of the federal government's mission to help Americans work their way out of the deepest recession since the Great Depression.  ‘It's going to let us train people for the technical jobs of the 21st century, especially in energy-related and health-related fields,’ said vice chancellor Sandy Kirschenmann. ‘These are training programs we would not be able to fund if it were not for the (stimulus) funds.’  Los Rios has used the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money to develop eight new job training programs that will serve roughly 5,000 students over the next two years.  Students at American River College are learning to become health care interpreters, translating what doctors say for non-English-speaking patients.  Students at Cosumnes River College are learning to weatherize homes and test them for ways to save energy.  And students at Folsom Lake College are training to become phlebotomists, the technicians who draw blood in medical settings… The new programs offer very specific training but not a college degree, although Kirschenmann said they could become for-credit programs next year.  Some of the programs were developed in conjunction with the Sacramento Employment and Training Agency.  All are designed to get students into the work force – fast.” [The Sacramento Bee, 11/27/09]

 

Groundbreaking ceremony will take place for a Recovery Act-funded park project in Palm Springs.  “A Dec. 7 groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for a $1.8 million Palm Springs park funded by federal stimulus funds.  The park will be located at the entryway to Palm Springs on the northwest corner of Gene Autry Trail and Vista Chino.  ‘In such a tough economy, federal dollars for a new park at the gateway to Palm Springs is a huge deal for our city,’ Mayor Steve Pougnet said.  ‘Not only will construction of the new park create new jobs here in the Coachella Valley, it will also be a wonderful addition to the neighborhood while providing a stunning visual for visitors as they enter Palm Springs,’ he added.  The funds will pay for the park's construction, bocce ball courts and median and parkway landscaping on Gene Autry Trail between Vista Chino and Via Escuela… Palm Springs has been awarded $8.4 million in federal stimulus funds, and the city has applications pending for an additional $6 million, Blaisdell said.” [The Desert Sun, 11/26/09]

 

Placer County uses Recovery Act money to aid small businesses.  “Placer County is requesting applications from businesses interested in obtaining low-interest, tax-exempt financing through a federal economic-stimulus program.  The county has been allocated $6.8 million from the Recovery Zone Facility Bond Program, which was created through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009.  Placer County’s allocation will be used to provide financing to one or two businesses located in the county.” [Rocklin & Roseville Today, 11/25/09]

 

Recovery Act energy grants to California will “help modernize the state’s electricity infrastructure to make delivery methods more efficient,” as well as save energy costs for consumers and create jobs.  “Two Southern California utilities were awarded more than $125 million in stimulus funds from the Department of Energy today to demonstrate “smart” electric grid systems and test energy storage projects.  Los Angeles Department of Water and Power received $60,280,000 and Southern California Edison Co. received $40,134,700 to test out and collect data on smart grid programs.  SoCal Edison was also given $24,978,264 for its Tehachapi Wind Energy Storage Project, using an 8-megawatt lithium ion battery technology… Several Northern California projects in Alameda, Berkeley, Fremont and San Francisco also picked up energy storage grants, Secretary of Energy Steven Chu said in a statement today.  In all, California systems were awarded nearly $175 million, part of the $620 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act given to 32 projects across the country dealing with large-scale energy storage, smart meters, electricity distribution issues and a range of technologies… The projects could create thousands of jobs, including for manufacturing workers, engineers, electricians, equipment installers, IT system designers, cyber-security specialists and analysts, Chu said.” [Los Angeles Times, 11/24/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will allow California State University-Long Beach to retain some employees and avoid cutting some course offerings.  “An infusion of one-time federal stimulus money is allowing Cal State Long Beach to retain some employees and avoid cutting some course offerings in the spring semester, university officials said.  The California State University system received $25 million in stimulus funds, $1.85 million of which will go to CSULB…. The funds will spare about 200 course sections from elimination, said CSULB vice provost David Dowell.” [Press-Telegram, 11/23/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to construct a roundabout in Santa Cruz, to replace unwarranted stop sign, improving traffic safety.  “This stop sign at the intersection of Second Street and Pacific Avenue is commonly violated because its ‘unwarranted,’ said Chris Schneiter, civic engineer for the city.   ‘Motorists won't fully stop if there is very low cross-traffic,’ he said.  ‘The stop was installed at the insistence of businesses wanting to facilitate the ability for motorists to make a left on to Pacific so that they can circulate back to the wharf and Boardwalk.’  The city has plans to reinvent that intersection by installing a roundabout and removing the stop sign, Schneiter said… The interior of the roundabouts will have public art related to an ocean life theme and some landscaping.  It will be paid for with stimulus funds.” [Santa Cruz Sentinel, 11/23/09]

 

At UC Berkeley, Recovery Act has been used for an additional 40 doctoral students and has supported 130 projects that are underway.  “President Barack Obama's stimulus package is already stimulating innovation and jobs at the University of California, Berkeley, with more than 130 projects underway.  The work is being funded by nearly $65 million in new money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA)…’ These extra research funds are a big plus for the campus, enhancing its research agenda and allowing us to hire additional students, post-doctoral fellows and technicians,’ said Mark Schlissel, professor of molecular and cell biology and dean of the biological sciences in UC Berkeley's College of Letters and Science… The stimulus funding ranges from a small supplement to support UC Berkeley students this past summer on a project involving diabetes in the Chinese American community, to two-year, multimillion dollar campus projects on leukemia, improved vaccines and basic mathematics.  At the School of Public Health, Patricia Buffler, for example, received a two-year, $2.3 million ARRA grant from NIH that will accelerate her 14-year study of the causes of childhood leukemia.  In addition, a five-year, $5 million grant from the NSF to the Graduate Division will fund graduate fellowships for an additional 40 doctoral students across the campus.” [UC Berkley Press Release, 11/19/09]

 

Gilroy Unified School District saved dozens of jobs thanks to Recovery Act funding.  “Gilroy Unified School District received $4.6 million in unrestricted funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which President Barack Obama signed into law in February to create new jobs and invest in long-term economic growth.  The district received an additional $1.8 million from the federal government to be put toward one-time expenses, such as staff development, for programs to educate socioeconomically disadvantaged, special education and preschool-aged children…. In 2008, district administrators sidestepped significant cuts using the stimulus funds and by handing out pink slips and scaling back programs, she said.  With about 90 percent of its general fund budget going toward salaries and benefits, the stimulus funds saved dozens of jobs this school year.” [The Gilroy Dispatch, 11/19/09]

 

In rural Nevada City, city police will hire two new police officers with Recovery Act funding and fill one vacant administrative assistant post.  “The Nevada City Police Department is already collecting applications for new jobs created with its half million-dollar stimulus grant.  Stimulus money will help bring two officers to the force, which consists of 10 full-time officers, two community service officers and one cadet.  The department is also filling a vacant administrative assistant post… ‘It would be nice to see more police walking the streets,’ said Bo Wolfson, co-owner of the Maiden Lane store on Broad Street.  Like other business owners in the area, she pointed to Calanan Park as an occasional problem area.  With a few hundred calls per month, Nevada City represents a small percentage of the emergency calls routed through the Nevada County Sheriff's office, which provides dispatch services for the city… Adding officers is about increasing visible patrol time, especially in the historic district, said Nevada City Police Chief Lou Trovato... ‘New officers will also help with routine traffic stops… The money was awarded as part of the federal Recovery Act.  Nevada City won the two-year competitive grant as part of $125 million awarded to rural law enforcement agencies across the country.” [The Union, 11/19/09]

 

Using Recovery Act funding, a Santa Rosa-based nonprofit is converting a former school to a green jobs training center; another organization will train tribe members in Ukiah for jobs in the waste-to-energy industry.  “Two agencies in Sonoma and Mendocino counties are getting nearly $186,000 in federal grants for green job training, the U.S. Department of Labor said Wednesday.  Community Action Partnership of Sonoma County received $85,910 for training solar power installers and energy efficiency auditors.  The Santa Rosa-based nonprofit is converting the former Lewis School to a green jobs training center.   California Indian Manpower Consortium, which has an office in Ukiah, is getting $100,000 to train tribe members for jobs in the waste-to-energy industry.  The grants are part of $55 million in economic stimulus money authorized by this year’s Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The green building grants targeted American Indians, women, at-risk youth and farm workers, according to Labor Secretary Hilda Solis.” [Press-Democrat, 11/18/09]

 

The San Antonio Youth Centers, a nonprofit agency that works to improve the lives of urban youth living in poverty, will receive a Recovery Act funded ‘green’ jobs training grant.  “San Antonio Youth Centers will receive $100,000 from the U.S. Department of Labor to provide training to young people interested in finding jobs in green industries and related occupations.  The local grant is part of a national distribution of about $55 million in green job grants, funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  In all, the Recovery Act is furnishing a total of $500 million for green-job training grants to promote economic growth… San Antonio Youth Centers is a nonprofit agency that works to improve the lives of urban youth living in poverty and in danger of dropping out of school.” [San Antonio Business Journal, 11/18/09]  

 

Recovery Act will help the state’s Water Resources Control Board fund 112 projects, including wastewater treatment plant construction, upgrade and sewer infrastructure improvements, and wastewater recycling and energy efficiency.  “In record time, the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) has completed awarding its full allotment of $270.5 million in federal stimulus funds for clean water projects that protect public health and the environment, and create jobs for Californians.  The projects include wastewater treatment plant construction, upgrade and sewer infrastructure improvements, as well as ‘green projects’ such as wastewater recycling and energy efficiency, and low impact development.… Projects awarded funding cross California, from Del Norte County in the north to San Diego County in the south and from the Pacific shore to the Nevada state line… Approximately $180 million has been provided as grants to disadvantaged communities for public wastewater projects and urban storm water/non-point source pollution projects.  Sixty million dollars has been provided in 0 percent loans for green wastewater recycling or energy efficiency projects.” [State Water Resources Control Board, 11/17/09]

 

Parents and caregivers enrolled in the Calworks welfare to work program will be among those receiving 10-week Recovery Act-funded jobs.  “Federal stimulus money is available to employers in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties to put people to work for up to 10 weeks.  ‘We want to move fast to get people employed,’ said John Collins of Goodwill's Shoreline Workforce Development Services, which operates in Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Luis Obispo counties… Goodwill, which serves as the employer of record, will screen people for eligibility, then employers use their regular hiring process.  Collins said interested employers include Santa Cruz City Schools, which laid off custodians and maintenance workers, the Soquel school district, which has office work to be done, and Second Harvest Food Bank.  Others include Bill Tysseling of the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce and Ron Slack, publisher of GoodTimes Weekly… For CalWORKS participants, this could mean an opportunity to increase job skills and gain work experience, and potentially lead to unsubsidized employment, said Claudine Wildman, employment and benefit services division director at the county's human services department.  While the employer is not required to keep the worker once the federal money runs out, the hope is that the economic recovery will be in full swing by then.” [Santa Cruz Sentinel, 11/17/09]

 

Recovery Act will allow the branch of the Santa Cruz Community Counseling Center to reach out to 170 more families and create 28 jobs in the county.  “A $2 million federal stimulus grant awarded to Child and Family Development Programs this month will allow the branch of the Santa Cruz Community Counseling Center to reach out to 170 more families and create 28 jobs in the county.  Early Head Start and Head Start programs serve 451 low-income children in Watsonville and Santa Cruz.  The grant money will add 130 new spots for the Early Head Start program and 44 for Head Start beginning February… Through child development programs serving children from birth through age 5, the program aims to ensure young children are healthy and ready for school.  The programs also provide families with parent education, health and dental screenings, social services, nutrition and developmental assessments and teen parent education.  About 800 children in the county are served through all six programs… The proposed expansion will affect Live Oak, Aptos, San Lorenzo Valley and Watsonville. Expanded sites will include a teen parent program in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District, an infant/toddler center in Watsonville, an Early Head Start program at the Baskin Child Care Center at Cabrillo College, and the Live Oak Family Resource Center among other community partners.” [Santa Cruz Sentinel, 11/15/09]

 

In San Diego, Recovery Act funded a photography education program and supported the Old Globe Theatre in Balboa Park; each used the money to save an artist's job that would have been cut.  “The $787 billion stimulus package signed into law by President Barack Obama in February set aside $50 million nationwide for the National Endowment for the Arts.  The NEA sent some of the money to state and regional arts agencies for distribution. The agency also gave $30 million in direct grants to museums, theaters, symphonies and other cultural institutions to avoid layoffs of critical personnel or to restore eliminated jobs.  San Francisco nabbed 37 grants totaling $1.4 million; Los Angeles scored 15 grants totaling $1.05 million.  San Diego was awarded two grants totaling $75,000 — the same amount as Fresno.  The Old Globe Theatre in Balboa Park received $50,000, and AjA Project, a photography education program in City Heights, was granted $25,000.  Each used the money to save an artist's job that would have been cut… Meanwhile, with its $25,000 stimulus grant, the AjA Project was able to retain creative director Shinpei Takeda. He's putting together an exhibit featuring stories by immigrant and refugee youths at the NTC Promenade in Point Loma's Liberty Station.  The exhibit is expected to open Dec. 10.” [San Diego Union Tribune, 11/16/09]

 

USC School of Social Work has received Recovery Act funding to study how and why child abuse and neglect increases the risk for substance abuse in adolescents.  “USC School of Social Work professor Penelope Trickett has been awarded $1.4 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to study how and why child abuse and neglect increases the risk for substance abuse in adolescents.  The two-year stimulus grant, funded through the National Institute of Drug Abuse, was awarded to Trickett, the David Lawrence Stein/Violet Goldberg Sachs Professor of Mental Health.  She and her team will look at the risk and resilience mechanisms underlying the relationship between child maltreatment and adolescent substance abuse.  The goal is for the research to help mental health professionals create more effective intervention and prevention efforts that target the most at-risk children, Trickett added.” [USC News, 11/16/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded flood protection project is creating 700 jobs and protected thousands of local residents from flooding.  “San Jose, Calif., is using $18 Million in Recovery Act funds to rebuild a flood control structure that will protect homes and businesses from the threat of disaster, as well as stimulate the local economy by adding as many as 700 jobs. Watch this Recovery Act success story video.  USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, in partnership with the Santa Clara Valley Water District, is re-designing a concrete canal to mimic a natural water way as a result of Recovery Act funding.  Flooding in the Lower Silver Creek area has been a major problem over the past five decades.  Once completed, 3,800 homes and businesses along the creek will be protected from a 100-year flood event.  It is estimated that damages from a large flooding event at this location could have cost as much as $37 million.  Another benefit of this project will be reducing the flood insurance premiums for thousands of homeowners along the creek corridor.  This will also free up money that is currently going to pay insurance premiums to help stimulate the local economy.  The final phases of this project offer many benefits, including:  Flood protection of homes and businesses for 16,000 direct beneficiaries; Flood protection of businesses, highways and infrastructure used by 250,000 people; Protection and enhancement of 3.4 acres of urban wetland habitat; Economic stimulus including several hundred construction-related jobs;  Water quality improvements as stream bank erosion diminishes; and Parks and foot bridges that connect neighborhoods and the creek.” [USDA, 11/13/09]

 

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory received $7 million in Recovery Act funds for four projects to study enhanced geothermal energy studies.  “Federal stimulus funds have been awarded to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to study and advance enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) technology.  Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, which is a US Department of Energy national laboratory, reported that it received $7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding for four projects that seek to advance EGS technology, which involves enhancing or engineering a fracture network deep in the earth.  EGS technology makes it possible to get heat from deep inside the earth in cases where conventional geothermal technologies – which generally must be near active volcanic centers or have very high temperature gradients – don't work, the laboratory reported.  Considered a clean and green technology that has the added benefit of being available around the clock and at any time of year, increased focus is being placed on geothermal production nationwide.  The Department of Energy reported that geothermal energy currently provides less than 1 percent of total U.S. electricity and 8 percent of renewable electricity generation.  The agency believes EGS could increase geothermal production 40-fold – increasing production to provide 10 percent of the United States' electricity needs.  The $7 million award for the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is part of a $400 million investment that the Department of Energy has made in geothermal energy thanks to the Recovery Act.” [Lake County News, 11/15/09]

 

Society for the Blind was awarded Recovery Act funds for its program that provides training to seniors experiencing vision loss; will allow the organization to hire four to eight new workers.  “Society for the Blind has been awarded $499,701 in federal stimulus dollars for a program that provides intensive training to seniors experiencing vision loss.  With the money, the local service agency that serves Northern California will be able to reinstate its Senior Impact Program that it discontinued three years ago because of lack of funding, a news release said.  The program provides a week of intensive training in a residential setting for seniors experiencing vision loss… Society for the Blind also will be able to hire between four and eight full- or part-time new workers to staff the program. .” [Sacramento Business Journal, 11/12/09]

 

Los Angeles will use Recovery Act funds for worker-training programs, which will include offering vocational training for 1,000 workers.  “Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced Tuesday that the city is making $10.3 million in federal stimulus money available for worker-training programs. …  Of the $10.3 million, $4 million will be used for vocational training for 1,000 workers and $6.3 million will be available to train an estimated 2,000 people for high-wage jobs in healthcare, construction, transportation and other sectors.  Villaraigosa said the city has received $43.7 million in job-training funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act so far, and between $300 million and $400 million in overall stimulus money.” [LA Times, 11/10/09]

 

Klickitat County Wind Farm Project has received Recovery Act funding to supply power to California municipalities, generating enough power for more than 250,000 California homes per year.  “A wind farm project near Goldendale in Klickitat County has received $19.4 million in federal stimulus funds, with the developer expecting a total of more than $170 million in federal grants to help pay for the $1 billion project.  Cannon Power Group of San Diego, which is building the 400-megawatt wind power plant with Windy Point Partners II LLC, said the funds are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money targeting renewable energy projects.  When completed, the wind power project will supply power to California municipalities, generating enough power for more than 250,000 California homes per year… Cannon officials called the Klickitat County project a ‘win-win’ for the local community.  ‘This project brought more than 300 construction jobs and additional permanent positions.  New roads also help area farmers and ranchers, and wind turbine leases generate income and a much needed financial cushion for many area families,’ said Gary Hardke, Cannon’s president and managing director, in a statement.” [Puget Sound Business Journal, 11/10/09]

 

With Recovery Act Rural Law Enforcement Grant the Fortuna Police Department was able to hire two officers and allow promote two existing officers.  “Two new officers and two grants have increased the Fortuna Police Department's forces with the hope of making the department more efficient.  Officers Brian Taylor and Justin Primofiore were hired to the FPD this week, putting the department at full staff for the first time since July, said Police Chief Kris Kitna.  Two more officers will be hired through a federal grant program, and the FPD has also received a traffic safety grant within the last week to help combat driving under the influence.  One of the new officers is filling an opening within the FPD, but the other is an additional position that was budgeted earlier this year, Kitna said.  The FPD now has 16 sworn officers… Lt. Bill Dobberstein said he hopes the new officers will help to more evenly distribute caseloads, since individual officers are each currently handling a high number of cases…  Kitna anticipates the FPD will hire two new officers by Jan. 1 to allow the appointment of two existing officers as investigators.” [Times-Standard, 11/4/09]

 

The Recovery Act has funded 139 jobs in Monterey County.  “About $113 million of federal stimulus money has created or saved more than 139 Monterey County jobs, according to newly released data.  The money largely replaces school funding cut at the state level, but also went to social services, transportation and housing assistance… ‘It is putting people to work,’ said Monterey-Salinas Transit Deputy Director Hunter Harvath.  The agency saved or created 84 jobs with a stimulus grant, more than any other county agency… With state cuts, the agency would have had to lay off 30 drivers to cover the payments… The agency also created nine new bus lines to the Presidio of Monterey and hired drivers for those routes.  State officials also funneled some stimulus dollars into other agencies that faced losses in Sacramento's budget negotiations.  For example, the Rape Crisis Center of Monterey County used about $44,600 in stimulus dollars to cover a two-month gap while the budget talks delayed the release of state funds, said Clare Mounteer, the center's executive director. ” [The Californian, 11/3/09]

 

Recovery Act “provides a lifeline” to Ryman Arts, a Los Angeles group that offers free fine arts classes to 300 area teens annually; the funding will also help save the job of its administrative coordinator.  “Ryman Arts, a two-decade-old Los Angeles group that offers free fine arts classes to area teens, received $26,000 in federal stimulus money.  The group’s using the money to help pay the salary of its full-time administrative coordinator, a position held by 28-year-old Tiffany Galindo…   Officials at the L.A. County Arts Commission, which handed out about $250,000 in job-saving stimulus grants, say that in its application Ryman made a strong case that it needed a lifeline.  Executive director Diane Bringham says the group’s already struggling without its director of development, whose job it was to look for grants. ” [Southern California Public Radio, 11/2/09]

 

Recovery Act funding has helped UC Berkeley and UCSF form a cancer research center to explore the physical principles that govern the origin and behavior of cancer cells.  “Scientists at UC Berkeley and UCSF have formed a research center to explore the physical principles that govern the origin and behavior of cancer cells, and how they multiply in humans.  With a five-year, $15.6 million grant from the National Cancer Institute, the UC researchers have formed the Physical Sciences-Oncology Center where they will seek to understand the mysterious ways that cancer - its onset and responses to radiation and chemotherapy - are subject to the laws of physics… Researchers at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and UCSF's Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center also will be included… The first year of grants for the 12 centers will total $22.7 million, coming from stimulus funds under the National Recovery Act, according to a spokesman for the NCI.  The national total is expected to exceed $250 million over five years.” [San Francisco Chronicle, 10/29/09]

 

Significant job gains show the impact the Recovery Act has had on economy in California.  “States have reported using stimulus money to create or save more than 388,000 jobs so far this year, buttressing the Obama administration's claim that the $787 billion plan has had a significant impact on the economy. The administration plans Friday to release reports from all 50 states, providing the broadest accounting yet of the stimulus plan's impact. The states' reports suggest the biggest impact has been at schools. Twenty-three states that have reported school job numbers said more than 156,000 jobs had been created or saved. Carol Bingham, director of fiscal policy for the California Department of Education, estimated the stimulus saved about 20,000 teaching positions.” [USA Today, 10/27/09]

 

The Bay Area will benefit significantly from Department of Energy’s Recovery Act -E funds for transformational energy research projects.  “The Bay Area claimed a sizable share of the $151 million in federal funding for transformational energy research projects announced Monday by the U.S. Department of Energy, with five organizations receiving a collective $15.1 million.  Stanford University alone will get nearly $5 million.  This is the first round of projects funded through the recently formed Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, which was allotted $400 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… Recipients: Stanford University; building efficiency: Sensors, software, and controls to track and improve energy use patterns.  Could lead to substantial reductions in building energy use by changing human behavior through timely information and usable controls… PAX Streamline Inc., Georgia Tech Research Institute; $3 million; San Rafael; wind power: ‘Blown Wing’ technology for wind turbines.  Creates a virtual airfoil by jetting compressed air along a wing.  Can be dynamically adjusted to maximize power under a wide range of wind conditions” [San Francisco Chronicle, 10/26/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will be used to help seal mine openings at Joshua Tree National Park; in addition to creating jobs.  “Park officials estimate that about 300 mines were staked during the late 1800s and into the 1900s.  To protect visitors from being injured while inspecting these workings, park crews have been working over the years to seal off the mines… Funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, park crews will close eight mines, while contractors will be used to close another 14.  According to park officials, ‘the mine sites comprise 40 total openings of horizontal adits and vertical shafts... Mines will be closed using techniques developed at Joshua Tree that ensure public safety but protect the mines’ wildlife and historic values.  Hazardous chemicals and other unsafe materials will be removed and properly disposed.  Special gates will cover mine openings to prevent human access but allow use by bats, desert tortoises, and other native wildlife… In addition to creating jobs, this project improves the safety of visitors at Joshua Tree National Park and enhances the value of these mines sites for wildlife,” said Joshua Tree Superintendent Curt Sauer.” [National Parks Traveler, 10/27/09]

 

Sacramento County’s Recovery Act-funded job opportunity program helps low-income workers and those in the state's CalWORKS welfare-to-work program find jobs at local businesses.  “The $4 million Job Opportunity Program, led by the county's Department of Human Assistance using federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds, targets low-income workers and those in the state's CalWORKs welfare-to-work program… Employees in the program work for up to six months with the goal of being hired permanently; meanwhile, participants build up work experience, earn cash and increase their chances of finding other employment.  ” [Sacramento Bee, 10/27/09]

 

Tulare County will repair 40 Head Start buildings, hire 8 new employees, and give 650 employees “cost of living raises,” thanks to Recovery Act funding.  ““Tulare County government agencies alone have applied for more than $114 million in stimulus funds, and so far they have received about $20.3 million, including about $850,000 to repave alleyways in Richgrove.  The Tulare County Office of Education is scheduled to receive $1.12 million for its Head Start day care and preschool programs.  About 33 percent will be used to provide cost-of-living raises for Head Start's 650 employees here, said Ray Chavez, who oversees Head Start in Tulare County.  Although run by the Office of Education, Head Start programs, for children of low-income families, mostly are funded with federal dollars, Chavez said... The stimulus money will allow Head Start to provide temporary raises of 5 percent for its preschool teachers and 1.84 percent for teaching aides and other workers... The rest of the stimulus dollars will go primarily for paying for repairs and renovations at some of the 40 Head Start sites in the county, hiring eight new employees, and providing staff training and development programs, which includes providing tuition assistance to teachers and aides earning college degrees.” [Visalia Times-Delta, 10/24/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will help Fresno State restore 200 class sections and retain about 50 more lecturers.  “Fresno State will stave off $1.4 million in class and job cuts this spring with the help of federal stimulus money, officials said Thursday.  Fresno State President John Welty said the money will allow the campus to restore roughly 200 class sections and retain about 50 more lecturers – non-tenured faculty members who often work on a year-to-year basis.  That heads off about a third of the cuts planned for the spring semester… The California State University system received $77.5 million in one-time stimulus money to help meet its payroll… Because of the stimulus money, CSU can shift $25 million previously budgeted in other areas to its 23 campuses to restore class sections and student support services.  Systemwide, CSU campuses will add as many as 4,000 course sections and retain up to 800 lecturers.  Universities around the country similarly have used stimulus money to save jobs and ease budget cuts.” [The Fresno Bee, 10/22/09]

 

25 Coachella Valley businesses benefit from $19 million in Recovery Act SBA loans for renovation, new construction and the purchase of equipment, fixtures and inventory.  “More than $19 million in loans have been awarded to 25 Coachella Valley businesses, including 11 in Palm Desert, through the federal government's economic recovery program… The businesses received loans — either through the Small Business Administration or Department of Agriculture — ranging from $12,500 to $6.2 million.  The money flowing into the valley is providing locals with working capital to purchase or expand businesses; funds are being used for renovation, new construction and the purchase of equipment, fixtures and inventory.  Bobi and Dave Ohlman of Palm Desert were able to buy their business, Jensen's Carpet, Tile & Upholstery Cleaning, with an SBA loan offered through the Recovery Act program… ‘Traditional financing was not an option, as banks require business history for these types of loans,’ Bobi Ohlman said.  They decided to go the SBA route and applied for a loan through Sunrise Community Bank.  The couple was approved for a $175,000 SBA 7(a) loan — known as a working capital loan… Last month, they applied for an SBA microloan to buy new cleaning equipment and add employees.” [The Desert Sun, 10/18/09]

 

Recovery Act saved approximately 6,000 education jobs in Los Angeles alone.  “Some 250,000 education jobs have been saved or created by the economic stimulus package, according to a White House report released Monday.  ‘There is a lot more work to be done, but we applaud those districts that have successfully used stimulus funding to stave off catastrophic layoffs and invest in critical reforms,’ Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said in a statement.  Of the $97.4 billion in education funding included in the stimulus bill, $67.6 billion has been spent. According to the report, more than 6,000 education jobs in Los Angeles were saved by stimulus funds” [Los Angeles Times, 10/20/09]

 

Recovery Act investment increases small business loan approvals, assists hundreds of businesses in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.  “Hundreds of businesses in Riverside and San Bernardino counties received small business loans backed by stimulus money, most doled out by the Small Business Administration... The money that poured into the Small Business Administration's loan program allowed Nancy Lazrovich, 23, to open her hair salon in Perris in southwestern Riverside County with $25,000 for construction and equipment.  A recent beauty school graduate, Lazrovich tried thrice to get a small business loan from the government.  It wasn't until earlier this year when stimulus money flowed that she got her wish… It might not be the road building and solar energy projects that gained attention from the stimulus, but the salon and many other local businesses are reporting they are adding jobs -- albeit slowly -- or keeping workers they feared were destined for the unemployment line… Before the stimulus plan passed, there were an average of 34 small business loans issued in Riverside County worth $9.3 million on a weekly basis, and 25 loans worth $8.6 million in San Bernardino County.  With the fee-less stimulus loans, the number in Riverside County jumped to 173 weekly loans worth $58.9 million on average.  In San Bernardino County there have been 153 loans worth $63.8 million in an average week…. Integrated Wealth Management bought and built its downtown Palm Springs office with a $1.25 million stimulus loan.  Since July, the firm has hired eight employees for its investment firm… [said] Jim Casey, president and CEO of Integrated Wealth Management” [The Press-Enterprise, 10/20/09]

 

The Recovery Act has created or saved over 62,000 jobs including 8,356 in the University of California system and 26,156 in the California state system.  “According to [the White House], Recovery Act spending in the area of education has saved or created 250,000 jobs nation-wide.  According to preliminary data reported to the federal government by Governor Schwarzenegger’s California Recovery Task Force, 24.8 percent or 62,204 of these education jobs were saved or created in California… On October 10, 2009, Governor Schwarzenegger’s California Recovery Task Force announced that preliminary first quarter reports show Recovery Act funds managed by state government entities have cumulatively saved or created over 100,000 jobs in California through September 30, 2009… Within this report, the following education-related agencies in California self-reported the following: The California Department of Education (Local Education Agencies): 27,692 jobs saved or created through Recovery Act spending through September 20, 2009.  California State University: 26,156 jobs saved or created through Recovery Act spending through September 30, 2009.  University of California: 8,356 jobs saved or created through Recovery Act spending through September 30, 2009.” [California Recovery Site, 10/19/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will help fund a highway project, which will reduce the risk of an earthquake damaging a key Bay Area commercial corridor.  “Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez joined House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom and others at a ‘commencement celebration’ to announce construction on the Doyle Drive Replacement Project.  The project will greatly reduce the risk of an earthquake severing a key commercial corridor for the Bay Area.  ‘This project has been talked about since the 1950s, and Recovery Funds are finally making it happen,’ said Administrator Mendez.  ‘Secretary LaHood and I agree this means safety improvements for the Golden Gate Bridge's 91,000 daily drivers and an economic boost for the Bay Area.’  The project - one of the largest in the nation - will replace the 73-year-old Doyle Drive, located on the southwest side of the Golden Gate Bridge, and make structural and seismic improvements to the neighboring Presidio Trust in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area...  Earthquakes or structural failure to the existing roadway would force the closure of one of Twelve different funding sources, spanning federal, state, regional and local governments, will finance the billion-dollar project, including $100 million in Recovery Act funding... This project is starting a year earlier than originally planned due to Recovery Act funding.” [News Blaze Press Release, 10/18/09]

 

Recovery Act funds allocated to the CalWORKs program could create up to 2,000 new jobs in Contra Costa County.  “If the anticipated millions of dollars in federal money comes through next month, Contra Costa County will give as many as 2,000 entry-level workers a chance to earn money while developing skills.  The program, to be funded with as much as $7.6 million in stimulus money, is an extension of the CalWORKs program that helps people move from welfare to work.  ‘We're very excited about the opportunity to help people become competitive in the labor market,’ Therrien said.  ‘We're emphasizing work experience, specific job skills, and teaching good work habits.’  The employers must be willing to train the workers, who would be paid $8.50 per hour for 30 hours a week from the federal money to perform clerical, janitorial, customer service and other duties.  The workers would also be eligible for child care and transportation subsidies while employed.  The goal is to find about 1,000 employers who will hire one to three applicants each.” [Contra Costa Times, 10/18/09]

 

California's Clean Energy Workforce Training Program will use Recovery Act funding to train unemployed residents for green jobs.  “College of the Desert and Riverside County's Workforce Development Division are working together to use federal stimulus dollars to turn unemployed valley residents into skilled, green-energy workers.   The county's EDA Workforce Development Division contracted with the school to provide job skills training, using about $1.15 million in stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  College of the Desert, which recently received an $800,000 grant for California's Clean Energy Workforce Training Program, is using about half of the contracted dollars to provide courses in wind turbine technician training, said Larry McLaughlin, director of COD's Advanced Transportation Technology and Energy Center.  The rest will fund a variety of training programs such as job skills or refresher courses.  ‘These classes are funded entirely through this project’ and will be free to eligible workforce development participants, McLaughlin said.” [The Desert Sun, 10/14/09]

 

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory plans to use Recovery Act funding for cloud computing research.  “Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory will split $32 million in government stimulus research funding with Argonne National Laboratory for studies of cloud computing.  Cloud computing means dividing up computer power between many shared devices, giving users ‘on demand’ access.  The idea is to increase the size of shared departmental computer resources to reap economies of scale. Argonne lab, in Illinois, and LBL’s National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center will ‘install similar mid-range computing hardware, but will offer different computing environments’ for comparison. A fast, 100-gigabit-per-second network will link LBL, on the hill above the University of California’s Berkeley campus, with Argonne National Laboratory.” [San Francisco Business Times, 10/14/09]

 

In California, Recovery Act funds have helped California's teachers and schools the most, having saved 62,000 jobs.  “Public schoolteachers are expected to be the big winners when states around the United States reveal for the first time how many jobs were created or saved during the first months of President Barack Obama's $787 billion stimulus plan…  More than $90 million is scheduled to come into Monterey County.  According to an Associated Press analysis of some preliminary state data, teachers appear to have benefited most from early spending.  That's because the stimulus sent billions of dollars to help stabilize state budgets, sparing what officials said were tens of thousands of teacher layoffs.  In California, the stimulus was credited with saving or creating 62,000 jobs in public schools and state universities.” [The Californian, 10/13/09]

 

The Recovery Act has saved or created 100,000 jobs in California, 62,000 of which are in education programs.  “More than 100,000 jobs have been saved or created in California from the $5.3 billion in federal stimulus money state agencies have spent so far, according to a preliminary report released Saturday by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's administration.  The report from the California Recovery Task Force was based on nearly 6,000 reports it submitted to the federal government on behalf of state agencies and their grantees detailing their job creation through Sept. 30… They indicate that more than 62,000 of the jobs saved or created to date have been in education programs, including 34,000 jobs in the University of California and California State University systems and 28,000 jobs that fall under Department of Education programs such as public school teachers and special education workers.  Together they reported spending more than $5 billion....  The White House has projected the stimulus plan will create or save 3.5 million jobs over the next two years, 90 percent of them in the private sector. Of that, 396,000 are expected to be created or saved in California… Among the other agency reports were:  The California Employment Development Department, which administers unemployment insurance and job training programs, reported spending $98 million and creating 22,517 jobs.  The state Department of Transportation reported saving or creating 913 jobs and spending $27 million.  California's Volunteer agency reported saving 568 jobs, mostly in the federal AmeriCorps program, by spending $47,000.  Saturday's figures do not include tax breaks, unemployment benefits and other funding that is going directly to local governments or nonprofits….  Federal funding has also been credited with reducing the size of the state's deficit, particularly through increased reimbursements in California's Medicaid program and school funding.” [San Jose Mercury News, 10/10/09]

 

Recovery Act will provide funding for numerous non-profit organizations in the Los Angeles area.  “The Latino Theater Company in the Historic Core neighborhood of Downtown and the Friends of the Chinese American Museum at the El Pueblo Historical Monument north of the Civic Center are among a handful of non-profit organizations that have been awarded portions of a recent grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).  The federal funds will reach local non-profit organizations through the Department of Cultural Affairs of the City of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Arts Commission.  The NEA provided a total of $420,084 to be divided between the county and city entities, which plan to distribute the money to a total of 16 recipients as part of the federal government’s $700 billion economic stimulus program… [O]fficials said that the funds are expected to help pay the salaries of 21 administrative staffers whose jobs could have been lost due to the economic slowdown, which has crimped fundraising and other revenue sources for many non-profits.” [Los Angeles Garment and Citizen, 10/9/09; republished 10/15/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will give a significant boost to the statewide Home Weatherization Program. “  The county money was expected; it's part of a $4.2 million contract approved by the county Board of Supervisors in June.  The money is being used to expand the county's existing weatherization program, which is designed to reduce the heating and cooling costs for low-income families by improving the energy efficiency of their homes, including such improvements as attic insulation. Ceiling fans improve air circulation to more efficiently heat or cool a home.    On average, weatherization cuts annual heating bills by 32 percent, according to the announcement.” [Stockton Record, 10/8/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will help a Newark contract research organization develop a pediatric imaging system that could greatly reduce the radiation dose for children undergoing heart procedures.  “Triple Ring Technologies Inc. won a $1 million NIH stimulus grant to develop an X-ray imaging system that could greatly reduce the radiation dose for children undergoing heart procedures.    Triple Ring said the system could cut the radiation dose in children undergoing cardiac procedures by 75 percent.  ‘Radiation dose in pediatric cardiac interventions is a serious concern, because children exposed to radiation have a far greater likelihood than adults to develop cancer in their lifetime,’ said Tobias Funk, a physicist at Triple Ring and the principal investigator on the grant.” [San Francisco Business Times, 10/7/09]

 

Ventura County will use Recovery Act grants to hire 20 workers and train 526 people; job placement services will be improved.  “The county of Ventura will use federal stimulus money to hire 20 workers and greatly expand its job training and placement services, officials say.  The county’s Workforce Investment Board was recently awarded $7.67 million in stimulus funds to spend over the next two years, according to a report that will be formally presented to the county Board of Supervisors at its meeting today.  The Workforce Investment Board allocated $1.75 million of the money to groups that placed 630 young people in summer jobs and internships.  The remainder of the grant will be used for adult job training and placement.  To run the new program, the county will establish 20 new full-time positions.    The grant funding should help the county enroll 526 new people in job training and placement programs, up from the current total of 263, according to officials.” [Ventura County Star, 10/5/09]

 

California will use $2.3 million in Recovery Act funds for research on broadband adoption. “California has been awarded $2.3 million in federal stimulus money to collect information on broadband service availability in the state and create an interactive Web-based map showing available services and providers by address.    The program, which is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and requires a 20 percent match from state governments, aims to increase broadband access and adoption through better data collection and broadband planning.    In California, $1.8 million will go to the California Public Utilities Commission to collect and verify the availability, speed and location of broadband across the state on a semi-annual basis between 2009 and 2011, with initial data coming available in November.  The CPUC will get a further $500,000 for the cost of broadband planning activities in California over four years.  For that work, the state agency is partnering with California State University, Chico Research Foundation ...” [Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal, 10/6/09] 

 

Recovery Act funding will help finance Humboldt County’s TANF Emergency Contingency Fund and create 51 jobs in Health and Human Services.  “As federal stimulus dollars begin to trickle into Humboldt County, the county Department of Health and Human Services plans to use its $4.7 million share to fill long-time vacancies and offer 51 temporary full-time jobs.  The funds are part of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Emergency Contingency Fund, financed under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… Department of Health and Human Services Director Phillip Crandall is recommending the creation of 45 “vocational trainee/assistant” positions, five full-time social worker positions and six mental health case manager positions, according to the staff report… The federal stimulus funds are also earmarked to hire contractors for employee placement and monitoring, and provide miscellaneous services for clients, including everything from emergency food to assistance moving.” [Times-Standard, 10/5/09]

 

Hartnell College will use $600,000 in Recovery Act funding to train up to 5,600 students in green construction.  “Hartnell College, in a partnership with the Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties Workforce Investment Board and Cabrillo College, received a $999,862 grant Friday to enroll Salinas residents in the green building and clean energy pre-apprenticeship training program.  Hartnell College will keep about $600,000 of that, said Mike Thomas, director of the college's Center for Sustainable Design and Construction.  During the six-month program, 60 students will spend 300 hours in a Hartnell classroom and earn 15 to 18 college credits.  Courses include green site management, introduction to green construction and others… Then students will spend another 300 hours in a paid internship program working for construction companies in the Salinas Valley, Thomas said.  ‘This program is about making the shift for the next generation of American builders,’ he said.  ‘Under this first phase of the program, anticipated to train 5,600, workers will be prepared for hands-on jobs ranging from installing solar panels and maintaining electric vehicles to computer programming and researching fuel cell technologies.” [The Salinas Californian, 10/6/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will help finance projects to reduce diesel emissions, protecting public health and the environment across Southern California.  “U.S. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson and California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Oct. 1 announced $26.5 million in funding for diesel emission reduction projects in Southern California under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  This infusion of money will help the region finance projects to reduce diesel emissions, protecting public health and the environment across the region... Through partnerships with the California Air Resources Board, CalTrans, South Coast Air Quality Management District, Port of Long Beach and Port of Los Angeles, these clean diesel projects will create jobs, boost local economies, and protect human health and the environment… Grant funding to the ports will include engine upgrades for more than 140 pieces of equipment, such as harbor craft and cargo handling equipment.  The Port of Long Beach and Port of Los Angeles are responsible for nearly 40 percent of containerized foods that flow in and out of the United States each year.” [Environmental Protection Online, 10/6/09]

 

Central Valley cities set to use more than $1 million in Recovery Act for clean energy projects. “Lodi and Manteca will receive a total of more than $1 million to help pay for clean energy projects, with the money coming out of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, better known as the stimulus package, says U.S. Rep. Jerry McNerney, D-Pleasanton.  Lodi will receive $586,200 for 10 projects that are expected to reduce electricity use in the city by more than 2 million kilowatt hours annually, and reduce fuel consumption.  Examples of these projects include installation of high-efficiency lights, rebates for energy efficiency home improvements, and educational outreach programs.  ‘This saves money for both the consumers and the city, and it reduces greenhouse gas emissions,’ says Lodi Mayor Larry Hansen.” [Central Valley Business Times, 10/5/09]

 

$15 million in Recovery Act funds will be used to fund two new transportation projects in San Jose, creating up to 170 jobs .  “The city of San Jose is taking advantage of tough economic times by using $15 million of federal stimulus money to create jobs and begin two transportation projects.  Because of funds received from the Recovery Act, the city has estimated 160 to 170 jobs will be created with the start of these projects.  Senior Executive Analyst Allen Fong claimed the first of the two projects will begin in two months and will work to resurface nearly 16 miles of arterial streets in San Jose.  The first project, Tier 1, will work to resurface 11 of the worst arterial roads.  A Transportation Department representative confirmed the second project; Tier 2 will resurface an additional six to nine miles of city streets...” [Public CEO, 10/2/09]

 

Port authorities will use Recovery Act funding to spur continued replacement and retrofitting of soot-spewing diesel equipment.  Port authorities received $6 million in federal stimulus money Thursday to spur continued replacement and retrofitting of soot-spewing diesel equipment blamed for contributing to some 5,000 premature deaths annually in communities surrounding San Pedro Bay.  The money will help clean up about 140 cranes, yard tractors, forklifts and tugboats based in the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, which air quality regulators list as the region's largest fixed source of health-damaging air pollution.”  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Director Lisa Jackson:  “These residents and workers bear the brunt of diesel pollution leading to 5,000 premature deaths in Southern California alone.” [Press-Telegram, 10/1/09]

 

Recovery Act grants will support green port policies, repower diesel trains, fund exhaust filters on construction equipment, and retrofit diesel school buses . “Other monies announced Thursday will help repower diesel trains serving Southland railyards, fund exhaust filters on construction equipment owned by Caltrans and retrofit diesel school buses used in and around the Los Angeles basin...  Attendees pointed out the success of a local entrepreneur who founded a heavy-duty electric truck factory in Harbor Gateway, Balqon Corp., which produces all-electric trucks hauling containers to and from local marine terminals.  The company's 30 or so green-and-white rigs emit no pollutants and have a range of about 40 miles per charge - ideal for the short hauls most truckers make between waterfront marine terminals and railyards located about five miles inland…    [EPA Administrator Lisa] Jackson said the grants will help slash some 26 tons of diesel particulate matter, 453 tons of nitrogen oxides and 920 tons of carbon dioxide emissions from local skies annually.” [Press-Telegram, 10/1/09]

 

UC Santa Cruz will use Recovery Act funding to research 20 types of cancer and create jobs for engineers and a cancer genome specialist.  “A cancer research center at UC Santa Cruz has landed $5.6 million in federal stimulus money, one of the more than 12,000 grants totalling $5 billion that President Barack Obama announced Wednesday to create jobs in medical research.  The cancer center is home to a mega computer lab that peers into the genetic blueprint of tumor cells to pinpoint deadly mutations…  The Cancer Genome Data Analysis Center will use the stimulus money to hire more engineers and a cancer genome specialist.    ‘We are about to see a quantum leap in our understanding of cancer,’ said National Institutes of Health Director Francis S. Collins, M.D. in a White House statement today.  ‘We're at the forefront, and the current administration is very aggressive in pursuing this,’ said Haussler.  ‘Now is the time.’ Haussler wants to expand his cancer center to study more than 20 types of cancer, including ovarian cancer and glioblastoma, the brain cancer that afflicted Sen. Ted Kennedy.” [Contra Costa Times, 9/30/09]

 

Recovery Act creates 13 construction jobs in San Carlos.  “Workers began installing new curb ramps and repainting crosswalks throughout San Carlos this week as part of a project funded by the federal stimulus act.  The $295,000 pedestrian improvement project, which is being entirely paid for by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, includes the installation of 119 ramps on city street corners to help people with disabilities get around...   The project will create 13 construction jobs, according to city officials.  The federal government awarded San Carlos $559,000 for the project, but the cheapest construction bid was significantly lower.  The city plans to use the rest of the money to resurface Crestview Drive between Edmonds Drive and Melendy Drive starting next spring.” [Mercury News, 9/30/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will help the Solano Transportation Authority buy four new buses for senior and disabled riders.  “Some $300,000 in federal stimulus money will help buy four new buses, including one in Vallejo, to transport senior and disabled riders, according to the Solano Transportation Authority...  In Solano County, the cities of Dixon and Rio Vista also learned they will get the federal funds designed to promote public transportation in rural areas.  Grants will go to 141 projects represented by 77 transit agencies statewide.  The $300,000 will go to replace three 18-passenger paratransit vehicles in Dixon, and one similar bus in Vallejo, STA executive director Daryl Halls said.  As part of the Vallejo Transit fleet, the 22-foot paratransit bus takes elderly and handicapped riders from Vallejo to the Solano Community College campus in Fairfield, Halls said… Statewide, the federal funds will help rural transit agencies build new bus station terminals, improve bus fare collection systems, upgrade safety and surveillance security equipment, renovate buses and purchase new vehicles, according to the state.” [Vallejo Times-Herald, 9/30/09]

 

A  Recovery Act-funded California road project will create 450-600 jobs each year for four years.  “With a federal stimulus grant of $128 million, the San Bernardino project is the country's fourth-largest stimulus investment in a road project.  Without the stimulus money, the Interstate 215 project would have been another victim of California's budget crisis... The federal stimulus money will be put toward widening seven miles of I-215, a heavily used cargo and commuter corridor running through the city of San Bernardino.  The project is expected to directly employ 450 to 600 workers on the construction site each year for four years, and pump hundreds of millions of dollars into the local economy… The stimulus investment could translate into about $380 million in economic activity for the region as construction workers spend on equipment, supplies and personal expenses like food and clothing, said Mr. Husing, the economist.” [Wall Street Journal, 9/29/09]

 

A $56 million Recovery Act allocation will fund a number of San Jose projects, such as creating wireless police records to repaving streets to upgrading the city water recycling program and creating summer jobs.  “San Jose congressional delegates joined local officials Monday afternoon to announce that more than $56 million in approved federal stimulus funds will be directed toward projects in the city.  The shovel-ready projects that garnered federal money include repaving streets, projects at Mineta San Jose International Airport, storm drain improvements, upgrades to the city water recycling program and assorted energy-efficiency programs.  The San Jose Police Department's records system received $1.3 million in its quest to go paperless, and roughly $16 million will assist with homeless prevention services, subsidizing summer jobs for at-risk youth, and programs for laid-off job-seekers.  With San Jose's unemployment rate hovering near 13 percent, and Santa Clara County's at about 12 percent, lawmakers who spoke today emphasized that this money's potential to put jobless residents back to work.  ” [KTVU, 9/28/09]

 

UCSB will use Recovery Act funds to support ongoing research on campus and create local jobs.  “Researchers in a wide array of fields at UC Santa Barbara have received a $36 million boost through the federal economic stimulus package that university officials hope will support the local economy, fuel innovation and train the next generation of scientists… Praising federal leaders for continuing to back higher education, UCSB Chancellor Henry Yang said the funding will build upon the ongoing research on campus, leading to more patents, more local companies, more local jobs and more tax revenues... The grants are spread across a broad spectrum of academic topics at the university, from engineering and computer science to geography, psychology and neuroscience.” [The Daily Sound, 9/28/09]

 

316 California youths benefit from Recovery Act-funded summer jobs program including some who were permanently hired.  “Butte County teens and young adults were among those to benefit from stimulus dollars through the summer jobs program.  More than 300 individuals from 16 to 24 found summer jobs, according to youth case work manager Bob Lackey.  The teens were generally disadvantaged or disabled.  The program was able to pinpoint 240 jobs throughout the county, but 316 individuals participated.  Some could not work the entire summer, so the same job could be held by more than one person.  Of the youth who found jobs, nine ended up going to college and four have full-time jobs, although their employers do get public dollars to help pay them, Lackey said.  Lackey said the majority of youths here had never held a job before.  In addition to work-related experiences, they worked in places they might not frequent — the fairgrounds, foot trails, parks.  ‘That kind of exposure could help them in decided a career later on.” [The Enterprise Record, 9/27/09]

 

Modesto School District uses $14 million in Recovery Act and state funds to save teachers’ jobs. “Red ink remains on the books, but Modesto City Schools officials say their financial outlook is better than they expected when they adopted their budget.  They're closing out their 2008-09 budget with $12 million in cash on hand, $19 million more than they expected as recently as June, when they had anticipated a $7 million deficit.  A boost from federal stimulus money and a more generous infusion of state cash than the district expected bolstered the bottom line... Despite the hiring freeze, the district expects to spend $9.1 million more than it takes in this year, a deficit that partly reflects the district's accounting for $14 million in federal stimulus money it received in June.  ‘(The stimulus money) did its job — it was meant to save jobs in 2009-10,’ Snelling said….” [The Modesto Bee, 9/25/09]

 

Flood of Recovery Act funding will speed up installation of water meters, cut rate payers’ costs, and create jobs in Sacramento.  “The Sacramento region has landed $49.2 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds for the installation of water meters.  Woodland is leading the way on water-meter installation thanks to $14.8 million in stimulus money.  All of the city’s 15,000 customers will be on a metered system by 2011, 14 years ahead of schedule…. The region was awarded almost 30 percent of the $150 million. Sacramento got the biggest piece, or $20 million, half of which is a grant and half a loan.  Woodland’s $14.8 million also is split into a grant and a 2.5 percent, 20-year loan.  ‘Not only is this going to create jobs, but in the long term it will hold water rates down by $4 to $5 a month per user (in Woodland),’ Baxter said.  So far, six contractors have been awarded nine projects” [Sacramento Business Journal, 9/25/09]

 

The $129 million Recovery Act allocation helps fund a four-year construction project in San Bernardino  “Skanska USA, leading a joint venture, has secured the contract to rebuild and widen I-215 in San Bernardino, California.  Skanska’s share of the contract amount totals $92 million.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) is contributing $129 million to the project. The total contract amount for the joint venture in which Skanska is involved is $154 million.  Skanska holds a 60-percent share in the venture, and local construction company, Steve P. Rados Inc., holds 40 percent.  The assignment involves two phases, spanning 1.4 miles, which will be widened by two lanes.  ” [Construction Equipment, 9/24/09]

 

The Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division received $400,000 in Recovery Act fund in order to pay the salaries of two staff members and to fund equipment upgrades.  “Newly acquired federal stimulus money will help the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office investigations division maintain its operations while the rest of the department is experiencing budget cutbacks.  On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson, whose district includes the North Coast, announced the Sheriff’s Office will receive $400,000 to help pay the salaries of two staff members and provide funds for equipment upgrades. The $417,228 is coming through the federal Recovery Act Assistance to Rural Law Enforcement to Combat Crime and Drugs Program.   ‘The sheriff’s department in Del Norte has been struggling to maintain staff levels while facing tough budget cuts,’ Thompson said in the statement… To help alleviate a county budget shortfall that at one time was estimated at more than $1 million, the Board of Supervisors required each department to cut spending by 10 percent.  For the Sheriff’s Office that meant reducing the Del Norte County Jail’s average population from 140 inmates to 105, and eliminating three positions within the department.  ” [The Daily Triplicate, 9/23/09]

 

School district is able to rehire 79 teachers and support staff due to Recovery Act allocation.  “Nearly all of the Lucia Mar Unified School District personnel who received layoff notices in May have been hired back, thanks to federal stimulus funds.  The Board of Education rehired 79 of the 90 employees who received pink slips May 13… The board decided to use federal stimulus money to rehire the teachers and support staff in an effort to reduce class sizes and provide classroom support in its 11 elementary schools, three middle schools and two high schools.   The district also supported its Opportunity Program, which provides smaller class sizes for fourth- to eighth-grade students who need extra instruction, by adding instructor time and a support position.  The district also is providing an additional $100, 000 to its Teacher On Special Assignment (TOSA) program.  The program focuses on supporting English learners in language arts and mathematics…” [Santa Maria Times, 9/23/09]

 

The City of Eureka will receive Recovery Act funds to help with the completion of the city’s long-planned fisherman’s terminal building.  “The city of Eureka just netted a big catch, and one that it's spent years reeling in.  U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke has announced that the city will receive $2.4 million in stimulus funds through a Economic Development Administration grant to help with the completion of the city's long-planned Fisherman's Terminal Building, the last of 11 city-approved projects aimed at turning a dilapidated waterfront into a thriving fishing port… After more than 15 years of planning, it now appears the city has cleared the final hurdle in securing the funding necessary to erect the $3.2 million terminal building.  Fishermen's Marketing Association President Aaron Newman said the new facility will be a great marketing tool for the industry, but will provide an immediate infrastructure improvement… But, the funding would not have been available without the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.” [The Times Standard, 9/23/09]

 

Several Santa Cruz County organizations received several million in Recovery Act funds to help keep people off the street and get them into stable housing.  “The Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $4 million to county organizations to keep people off the streets and get them into stable housing.  Families in Transition of Santa Cruz County received $1.6 million, while the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Inc. and the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency each received $1.2 million… The local organizations will give short-term rent assistance, in the form of checks written directly to the landlord, to families or individuals who can't pay rent and risk eviction because of emergencies such as sudden illnesses, job loss or the departure of a partner or roommate, said Christine Johnson-Lyons, executive director of the Watsonville-based Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County.  The organizations also will help get newly homeless people into permanent housing quickly and will help get people in volatile living situations into more stable home environments, Johnson-Lyons said.” [San Jose Mercury News, 9/22/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded “Jobs Now Program” will help boost workforce in the Bay Area by creating up to 1,000 jobs. “At least 90 public and private businesses in San Francisco are boosting their workforces with stimulus funds.  San Francisco's Jobs Now Program reimburses employers for 100% of new employees’ [sic] salaries.  San Francisco's Internet Archive has hired 40 new workers under the Jobs Now program.  It's hoping to hire between 100 and 200 more. Noelle Simmons, a Policy Director at San Francisco's Human Services Agency said she expects the Jobs Now program will create about 1,000 jobs.  ‘Here's an opportunity for people who are unemployed to make themselves more attractive to employers, by being able to say 'hey, the Jobs Now program will cover 100% of my wages if you hire me,’ Simmons said.” [CBS 5, 9/18/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded infrastructure project set to invigorate the local Altona community with new jobs.  “After months of waiting and hoping, Altona town council were thrilled to discover they would receive stimulus infrastructure funding from the federal and provincial governments to help them pave 14th Ave. N.E.  The combined federal and provincial contribution of close to $960,000 will help the town make intersection improvements and pave 14th Ave. from Hwy. 30 to the newly built 2nd St. N.W… ‘We understand the importance of investing in roads, bridges and other infrastructure to ensure Manitoba communities remain competitive and prosperous,’ he said. Portage-Lisgar MP Candice Hoeppner agreed. ‘Our government is making smart investments that will inject additional capital into our economy and keep people working during these tough economic times while improving Manitoba’s infrastructure,’ she said. ‘This investment in Altona’s infrastructure will contribute to the quality of life, assist industry and commerce in the local community, and help boost our regional economy now and for years to come.” [Red River Valley Echo, 9/17/09]

 

UC Irvine will use Recovery Act grants for various programs, from establishing undergraduate research to studying breast cancer, the effects of traffic pollution and prenatal stress.  “Research efforts in breast cancer, the effects of traffic pollution and prenatal stress are some of the recipients of nearly $24 million in federal stimulus grants given to UC Irvine to date… Four faculty members of the school’s math and computer science programs will use the funds to develop a new undergraduate education and research program at UCI, which they will call UCicamp, or the UCI Interdisciplinary Computational and Applied Mathematics Program…The National Institutes of Health granted $317,475 to study how certain anti-progesterone compounds may prevent or delay the growth of breast tumors… The school’s Women & Children’s Health & Well-Being Project will use $350,000 to research the link between infant and child thinking and behavior with prenatal levels of stress hormones like cortisol..” [The Daily Pilot, 09/17/09]

 

Monterey County Probation Department will use Recovery Act funds to create a center to reduce re-incarceration rates, help low-level offenders obtain jobs, and reduce crime.  “More than $1.4 million in federal stimulus money will help low-level criminal offenders get jobs and advice in Monterey County, officials announced Tuesday.  The money will be used to implement the Monterey County Day Reporting Center, a place to give employment help and behavior lessons to adults who have violated their probation or parole, said Marcia Parsons, assistant chief at the county Probation Department.  Officials said the center will help increase the effectiveness of probation officers, reduce probation and parole violations and reduce crime rates.  ‘We hope this will increase public safety and decrease re-incarceration rates,’ Parsons said.” [The Californian, 9/16/09]

 

Woodland will use $14.8 million in American Recovery Act funding for city’s Water Meter Installation Project, easing burden on ratepayers.  “Woodland will begin the second phase of installing water meters throughout the city this fall.  With around $14.8 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 stimulus money, the City Council awarded a two-year contract for $12.3 million to Teichert Construction for water meter installation to the city's 10,000 remaining water connections, according to Doug Baxter, the city's engineering division manager.  ‘The ARRA funds couldn't have come at a better time for rate payers, considering the city is also in the planning stages of a major surface water supply project, the funding of which will create the need to increase rates,’ Baxter stated.” [Daily Democrat, 9/16/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded highway project to help create 2,000 jobs each year for the next four years.  “The 215 Freeway widening project- a job that officials are calling the first highway project in America to get more than $100 million in federal stimulus funding - is just about ready to start.  ‘This project will get Californians back to work in one of the nation's hardest hit areas,’ said Victor Mendez, chief of the Federal Highway Administration... Freeway work is also being financed with state and local dollars - the third phase is expected to cost about $424 million.  Mendez predicted Monday that the millions being directed to the 215 would create the equivalent of 2,000 jobs in each of the next four years.  [Contra Costa Times, 9/14/09]

 

Berkeley Lab receives $1.8 million in Recovery Act funding to help federal agencies improve energy efficiency.  “Advanced energy-efficient technologies in lighting, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), and control systems are heading for the buildings, laboratories and data centers of several federal agencies.  With $1.8 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, experts at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) will provide the technical expertise to help federal energy managers perform these projects and monitor their performance’ said Arun Majumdar, Director of Berkeley Lab’s Environmental Energy Technologies Division (EETD).” [Berkeley Lab Newsletter, 9/13/09]

 

Recovery Act funding will create hundreds of jobs by helping expand the marketplace for innovative solar electric panels, powering 24,000 homes a year.  “Vice President Joe Biden, appearing via satellite from Washington D.C., today announced the Department of Energy has finalized a $535 million loan guarantee for Solyndra, Inc., which manufactures innovative cylindrical solar photovoltaic panels that provide clean, renewable energy. The funding will finance construction of the first phase of the company's new manufacturing facility. Annual production of solar panels from the first phase is expected to provide energy equivalent to powering 24,000 homes a year or over half a million homes over the project's lifetime.  Hundreds more will install Solyndra's solar panels on rooftops around the country…The project will introduce into large-scale commercial operation a new and highly innovative process for manufacturing a breakthrough design for photovoltaic panels.” [Media Newswire, 09/10/09]

 

A Recovery Act-funded highway widening project in Tahoe is expected to create about 450 jobs. “About $25 million in federal stimulus money will go to a Highway 89 project at Lake Tahoe. Plans call for the highway's shoulders to be widened between Luther Pass and U.S. 50, and for erosion control measures to improve water quality in the Tahoe basin. Caltrans spokeswoman Rochelle Jenkins says the 18-month project is expected to create about 450 jobs.” [Associated Press, 9/5/09]

 

The number of jobs created or saved by the Recovery Act increased by more than 50 percent from June to July.  “The number of jobs created or saved by infrastructure projects funded by the U.S. economic stimulus plan increased by more than 50 percent in July from June, according to a report on Wednesday.  By the end of July, 77,470 jobs had been ‘created or sustained’ by water, highway and public transportation projects, compared to slightly less than 50,000 jobs at the end of June, said the report from a House of Representatives committee.  A single state, Illinois, accounted for nearly a fifth of the total by creating or sustaining 15,388 jobs, according to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee… California, which was given a large share of the infrastructure funds included in the $787 billion stimulus plan, tallied 10,146 jobs.  There have been 5,953 jobs created or sustained in Texas, which also received a significant portion of the transportation earmarks.” [Reuters, 9/2/09] 

 

Governor Schwarzenegger announced the creation of a new clean energy workforce training program, which will be partially funded by Recovery Act money; the program is expected to train 20,000 workers for green jobs.  “Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger came to Los Angeles on Monday to announce a new $75-million ‘clean energy workforce training program,’ which he said would help train more than 20,000 workers for green-sector jobs.  The program is intended to train young workers and the unemployed to become solar installers, green-building designers and weatherization installers.  The state received $20 million for the job-training effort from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The rest will come from the California Energy Commission, as well as community groups and educational institutions.” [Los Angeles Times, 9/1/09]  

 

Ross Elementary district will receive a school construction bond tax credit as part of the Recovery Act that could save Ross taxpayers $5.4 million in interest.  “Ross School has won the federal stimulus fund lottery. School officials learned Friday they would receive a $2.85 million school construction bond tax credit as part of the federal stimulus bill - a credit Superintendent Tammy Murphy believes will save Ross taxpayers $5.4 million in interest.  ‘We were so fortunate.  It's just a wonderful story,’ Murphy said.  ‘This would have been a 25-year term for our bond.  Now we'll be able to pay it off in 15 years at zero to little interest.  It's just great.’  The federal stimulus bill, officially known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, includes a provision that allows tax credits on $22 billion of qualified school construction bonds nationwide.  The tax credits are expected to equal the amount of interest school districts pay on debt, which typically equals half the cost of the bond… District officials estimate that without the tax credit, Ross property owners would be paying $17.78 per $100,000 of assessed property value toward the district's bonds every year for the next 25 years.  Thanks to the credit, taxpayers will pay that rate for the next 15 years, and then about $8 per $100,000 for eight years after that.” [Marin Independent Journal, 8/31/09]  

 

A second round of Recovery Act funding for Native American tribes to reduce domestic violence will enable the Big Valley Band to provide assistance to domestic violence victims.  “After Department of Justice officials concluded the first of three working sessions on tribal law enforcement issues Aug. 26, Attorney General Eric Holder announced that more than $5.6 million in Recovery Act funds was awarded to nine tribal governments in five states by the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW).  The awards were made to tribal governments in California, Kansas, Mississippi, Montana and Oklahoma.  The tribal governments that received the grants included the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians, based at Big Valley Rancheria in Lakeport, which received $446,700.  The grant will provide community resource and referral information services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and provide emergency food and clothing to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, or offer referrals to service providers.  The funds awarded to Big Valley also will be used to provide domestic violence counseling services… These tribal awards are in addition to the more than $8.9 million in Recovery Act funds that were awarded earlier this week to 10 tribal governments.” [Lake County News, 8/31/09] 

 

Thanks to Recovery Act funding, San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board is serving about twice as many residents seeking jobs.  “The San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board, a public-private board that utilizes federal funding to help San Bernardino County residents prepare for and find jobs… With the benefit of the federal stimulus package this year, the San Bernardino County WIB has $30 million, about double its usual funding, and is anxious to invest it in its most important local resource - its residents.  ‘We're here to extend a hand, we're here to help,’ Harmsen said.  ‘(The WIB) can help you to be ready for those jobs in the demand industry sectors so that when the economy turns around you'll be ready for employment.  We are providing what's needed for success, we're providing hope.’  The Rancho Cucamonga WIB office contains many facets of service including a resource room with about 50 computers with Internet access, fax machine, career library and knowledgeable staff members, several who are bilingual in Spanish.  There is also a station to accommodate those with disabilities… There are also more than 40 advisers on site meeting with clients working on career paths.  About 200 job seekers are at the center each day, said Tony Gomez, the manager of the Rancho Cucamonga center.  ‘That's about double from last year at this time,’ Gomez said.  ‘This past January and February we served about 8,000 a month.’” [Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, 8/30/09]  

 

Butte County resource conservation district will use Recovery Act funding to eradicate invasive weeds that threaten plants and fish in sensitive wildlife areas.  “Invasive weeds are causing big-time problems for resource managers throughout the Sacramento Valley, and the state, nation and globe.  Several weeds are on the hit list for wildlife managers… Adding to this growing list is red sesbania… The Resource Conservation District applied and received a grant for $50,000 over two years from the California Department of Food and Agriculture and from federal stimulus funding.  The money will be spent to remove mature plants along the Feather River.  Vertolli explained that stumps will be treated with herbicide, and overseen by the Department of Fish and Game, to protect sensitive areas… The grant funding will purchase a quad and trailer for use on the weed projects.  Also, a spray tank with a boom will be bought.” [The Chico Enterprise-Record, 8/31/09]  

 

Recovery Act-funded youth employment programs in Ventura County are expected to help 660 young people get jobs.  “Anthony Gaber thought he’d have to enter the military after high school to learn job skills.  But before graduating from Simi Valley’s Royal High School in June, the 18-year-old learned about a summer youth employment program offered through Moorpark College and PathPoint, a Santa Barbara-based nonprofit that offers employment, residential and support services to more than 2,300 people a year.  The services are offered to those with disabilities or disadvantages in five counties, including Ventura.  The program, funded by federal stimulus money, aims to give youth work experience and job skills while they earn money.  The employers benefit from the extra hands and from their contribution to the youth’s development.  After Gaber attended a free job-readiness workshop at the college, he began working Aug. 3 at a Telair International warehouse in Simi Valley… Gaber’s employment at Telair was made possible by an $805,000 grant PathPoint received through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  In all, PathPoint and its six partnering agencies, including Moorpark College and the Boys & Girls Club of Camarillo, plan to train and have jobs for 260 disadvantaged youths ages 14 to 24 in Ventura County.  A nonprofit youth club in Oxnard that received a similar grant will serve youths in Oxnard and Port Hueneme.  Marielle DeFazio, PathPoint’s director for the Simi Valley office, said both programs are expected to help 660 disadvantaged youths in Ventura County get jobs.  The program runs through Sept. 30.” [Camarillo Acorn, 8/28/09] 

 

Faculty members at the University Of California at Davis have received 88 Recovery Act-funded research grants; the supported projects will support adjunct professors, research administrators, technicians, and research associates.  “Faculty members at the University of California Davis have received nearly $32.6 million in stimulus funds for research so far, and more grants are expected, the university said Thursday.  Through Monday, almost $32.6 million has been handed over to UC Davis through 88 different research grants.  The ‘steady stream of grants from federal stimulus funds is providing a much-needed cushion for research programs campus wide’ during tough financial times.”  Vice chancellor for research Barry Klein:  “At a time when we are very hard-pressed, this stimulus funding will allow us to build up an infrastructure that will serve us well for many years.  And that is precisely the purpose of these awards: to get things under way quickly that will have a long-term positive impact on the stability of the workforce on campus… Adjunct professors are supported through grant funds, as are research administrators, technicians and staff research associates.  And these grants will also create jobs by enabling us to hire graduate students and postdoctoral scholars to participate in the research.” [Sacramento business Journal, 8/27/09] 

 

Santa Ana unified school district using Recovery Act funds to rehire 80 teachers laid off at end of last school year.  “Santa Ana Unified plans to rescind the layoffs of about 80 teachers for the upcoming school year, district officials said today… The district originally planned to increase classes sizes in grades one through three to 30 from 20 students as part of an effort to cut the district's budget following state cuts to education.  A total of 240 teachers were laid off at the end of last school year.  District spokeswoman Angela Burrell said officials are contacting the 80 teachers to determine if they will be able to return.  Some teachers may have already found other jobs elsewhere and may not accept the district's offer, she said… Santa Ana Unified will pay for the additional teachers out of a combination of $5.7 million in stimulus and state funds recently made available to the district to decrease class sizes.” [Orange County Register (CA), 8/26/09]  

 

Recovery Act Money will be used to create 85 jobs to remove toxic waste at Blue Ledge Mine.  “If you have any thoughts on the challenging task of cleaning up the long inactive Blue Ledge Mine high in the Applegate River drainage just south of the California state line, the U.S. Forest Service wants to hear from you.  A 30-day public comment period began Wednesday to gather public mood on the agency's recommended removal plan of the toxic wastes left by the copper mine operation was announced Wednesday by Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest officials.  The $8.5 million project, funded by federal stimulus money to increase local employment, is expected to create up to 85 jobs, most of which will be contracted out through private firms.” [Mail Tribune (OR), 8/27/09] 

 

Federal government approves hundreds of Recovery Act projects in Sacramento region.  “The federal government has approved more than $600 million in stimulus projects and programs so far in the Sacramento region, with more money still to come, according to a Bee analysis of multiple government sources.  Most of the projects are limited efforts with budgets under $1 million. A few, though, are huge, multi-million dollar jobs… The Bee has created an unofficial list of hundreds of projects, all of them viewable at www.sacbee.com/stimulus.” [Sacramento Bee, 8/27/09] 

 

Recovery Act money awarded to improve safety of Folsom Dam.  “Folsom Dam safety improvements – $22.3 million:  Built in 1955, Folsom Dam created Folsom Lake, one of the region's premier recreation spots.  The dam is mostly for flood control, but also provides water for domestic and agricultural use… Officials have long planned to modify the dam's spillway gates to make them less susceptible to earthquakes.  The stimulus money will go toward making that happen quickly.” [Sacramento Bee, 8/27/09] 

 

Recovery Act money awarded for Sacramento Railyard project expected to jumpstart development at edge of downtown Sacramento.  “Development at the Sacramento railyard – $20 million:  Probably the highest profile local stimulus project, Sacramento's railyard has long sat fallow on the edge of downtown.  City planners hope a large, planned infill project at the railyard will be a shot in the arm for the region, and the stimulus money is a key component of their plans.  The $20 million would help move some train tracks a few hundred feet north, making room for a transit center behind a depot, and allowing Fifth and Sixth streets to extend on bridges into the railyard, all of which could jumpstart development.” [Sacramento Bee, 8/27/09]  

 

Recovery Act money used to rubberize paving along Highway 99 from Sacramento County Line to state highway; project already underway and creating jobs.  “Highway 70/99 rehab near the Sacramento/Sutter county line – $18.3 million:  North of Sacramento, Highway 99 has been getting a lot more traffic, largely because so many commuters flocked to Marysville and Plumas Lake in search of less-expensive housing. But large swaths of the road are in poor shape.  This project will apply rubberized paving to 10 miles of Highway 99 from the Sacramento County line to State Highway 70.  Of the five projects mentioned here, it is the only one that is actively under way and creating jobs.  The project is supposed to be completed by November.” [Sacramento Bee, 8/27/09]  

 

Recovery Act money awarded to build new wastewater treatment plant in Sutter County; project will support 45 local construction jobs and forestall large rate increase.  “Live Oak wastewater treatment plant – $16 million:  It's easy to make a case that the small Sutter County town of Live Oak desperately needed stimulus funds. Its unemployment rate stands at 30 percent – almost three times the state average.  State regulators told the town years ago that its wastewater treatment plant wasn't up to snuff, and the plant has been operating under a cease-and-desist order since 2005, said Jim Goodwin, Live Oak's city manager.  The stimulus money – a $10 million grant and a $6 million low-interest loan – will build a new plant, support 45 local construction jobs and forestall a large rate increase, Goodwin said. Construction will start soon.  ‘The only way to meet the state's requirements was to completely rebuild the plant,’ Goodwin said.  ‘We've been struggling on how we could do that at a rate our customers could afford.’” [Sacramento Bee, 8/27/09]  

 

Recovery Act money awarded to improve American River levees.  “American River levee improvements – $14 million:  The Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency is concerned that water from the American River could flow under some levees and pool up on the other side, causing flooding.  This project, an extension of construction undertaken a decade ago, will let SAFCA work on that problem and fix ‘gaps along county roads and sewer lines that our initial construction couldn't do,’ said Pete Ghelfi, SAFCA director of engineering.  Work will be done at multiple points in the region along the river, Ghelfi added.” [Sacramento Bee, 8/27/09]   

 

California State University system using Recovery Act funds to cover financial aid as fees increase.  “Faculty and staff furloughs, a 32 percent student fee increase, enrollment cuts and class reductions are all in place as the California State University system tries to grapple with its most significant budget woes in its history… To fill the ‘unprecedented’ budget shortfall it faced as a result of the state budget cuts, CSU has taken measures that include furlough days for nearly all of its 47,000 employees, a 32 percent increase to the student fee, planned enrollment cuts that include the closure of spring enrollment, and system-wide budget reductions, Vice President for Academic Affairs Ephraim Smith said… The total fee increase is an accumulation of multiple increases that have been passed by the CSU Board of Trustees since May… A third of the increase will be funneled to financial aid.  ‘This set aside, as well as increases in financial aid included in the federal stimulus package, is expected to fully cover the fee increase for 187,000 of CSU’s 450,000 total students,’ Gordon stated.” [The Daily Titan, 8/24/09]  

 

The Hoopa Valley and Yurok tribes received Recovery Act funds to build new homes; the project is expected to employ between 11 and 17 people.  “Of the 15 tribes in the country to receive coveted housing stimulus funds, two of them call the North Coast home.  The Hoopa Valley and Yurok tribes have both been approved for $1.17 million to develop housing for tribal members, enough to provide new homes for 13 households. While both have been approved – the only two California tribes to receive the hard-sought assistance – the Hoopa Valley Tribe is actually the first in the nation to sign the contract and begin implementation.  The agreement was signed Wednesday.  Because the Hoopa Tribe has a modular home construction facility that – although currently not in operation – can be fired up quickly, they easily met one of the federal government's most important criteria for stimulus funds – readiness.  Their 13 homes are ‘shovel-ready,’ said Robert Eben, Pacific regional housing officer for the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs.  Constructing the two- and three-bedroom homes will also put people to work, Eben said.  An estimated 11 to 17 employees will get hired on at the modular plant to get the homes built and ultimately out to the recipients, said Eben.” [Times-Standard, 8/21/09] 

 

Recovery Act-funded contracts to install lighting on airport runways allowed New Bedford Panoramex to keep fifteen employees that were going to be laid off.  “Steven Ozuna had 15 pink slips ready to distribute to his employees.  Like many small companies, his engineering firm was struggling to land new business, and Ozuna needed to cut costs.  Then, in May, Ozuna was tapped by the Federal Aviation Administration to complete a stimulus project – a deal that has kept his company's staff intact… Ozuna signed a contract on May 15 for $2.56 million to install RLMS at nine airports.  A month later he signed a second contract for another airport that brought the total up to $2.85 million.  The company started work right away to complete the two-year deal… In addition to letting him keep his valuable employees, Ozuna is optimistic that the stimulus contract will lead to more opportunities.” [CNNMoney.com, 8/21/09]  

 

Recovery Act funds will help boost water conservation and storage efforts throughout California.  “About $27 million in federal grants will help boost water conservation and storage efforts throughout California as the state grinds through its third year of drought.  The release of the funds announced by Interior Sec. Ken Salazar Thursday include more than $15 million for projects in the San Joaquin Valley, where irrigation shortages have forced farmers to layoff workers and leave hundreds of thousands of acres unplanted.  The grant funding will cover a portion of the costs of projects designed by tribes and irrigation districts to meet critical water needs, lower dependence on federal water supplies and store water underground. Water managers in the Sacramento area also will get $5 million to install water meters.” [Associated Press, 8/20/09]  

 

Recovery Act-funded Sacramento water conservation project is expected to create 40 jobs.  “An aggressive effort to conserve water with the installation of water meters got a $5 million boost Thursday.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act allocated funding through the U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation, greatly helping a $15.3 million effort to install 3,750 water meters in the region by 2011… The 15-month project is expected to create about 40 jobs to install the meters.”  Representative Matsui:  “Among talks of saving the Delta, one of the best ways we can help conserve water is with proper metering and water management.  This funding will directly help local communities conserve California’s most precious resource.  The water saved through new meters will help provide more water to California’s Delta and create jobs here in Sacramento.” [Sacramento Business Journal, 8/20/09] 

 

Anaheim RMA land construction won Recovery Act-funded contract to build children’s center.  “RMA Land Construction Inc., Anaheim, Calif., won a $7,960,241 federal contract modification from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Albuquerque, N.M., for the construction and design of a Child Development Center under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Place of performance will be in Clovis, N.M.” [Targeted News Service, 8/18/09] 

 

Fort Ord reuse authority in Marina will receive Recovery Act funds to improve infrastructure at former Fort Ord.  “The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Monday a $6.4 million grant to the Fort Ord Reuse Authority in Marina to finance infrastructure improvements at the former Fort Ord. The grant was awarded by the Economic Development Administration and was part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act signed into law in February.”  Commerce Secretary Locke:  “The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness.  The Recovery Act has worked to stabilize economic conditions and help those harmed by the economic crisis.  This grant will support planned commercial and industrial developments that will attract the private investment needed to continue reuse projects and create new jobs for the region.” [Californian, 8/18/09] 

 

Campo Band of Kumeyaay Indians will receive Recovery Act money to improve drinking water infrastructure.  “The Campo Band of Kumeyaay Indians of San Diego County will receive $753,100 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for improving their drinking water infrastructure, federal officials said July 8. Citing data that indicates 10 percent of tribal homes don’t have safe drinking water or waste water disposal facilities compared to 0.6 percent for non-Native homes in the U.S., some $90 million is being dispersed to 150 projects in Indian communities under the ARRA.” [Indian Country Today, 8/18/09]  

 

Battery company will spend Recovery Act-funded grant to test recharging stations in several states.  “The largest of the $2.4 billion in DOE grants went to manufacturers in Indiana and Michigan.  Also among the projects, Phoenix-based Electric Transportation Engineering Corp. will install 12,500 recharging stations in five test markets in Arizona, California, Oregon, Tennessee and Washington.” [WVNS Channel 28 News, 8/16/09]   

 

Long Beach Airport will make ramp and taxiway improvements thanks to $4 million in Recovery Act funding.  “‘We’re very pleased and excited that the grant funding has been released,’ said Christine Edwards, Operations Bureau Manager, during a phone interview this afternoon.  ‘It will provide sorely needed jobs for the community and will begin the job of rebuilding our ramp with concrete that will last us the next 50 years or so.’  Edwards also explained that the funding will make its way through City officials and should be finalized and ready to spend sometime next week.  She also explained that an additional $3 million is set to be granted to the airport in a grant based on the number of passengers that have used the airport in the past year.  This brings the airport's total grant receivings to more than $7.4 million, the exact amount they hoped to get to improve the ramp and taxilane.  The ramp job itself will cost about $6 million and create close to 120 jobs, but Edwards also said that the taxilane project will cost about $900k and produce several dozen more jobs.” [Long Beach Post, 8/13/09] 

 

New JOBS NOW! effort will seek to find employment for over 1,000 San Franciscans.  “The mayor's office announced a new initiative Wednesday that aims to put at least 1,000 San Franciscans back to work using federal stimulus funds.  The initiative, called JOBS NOW!, matches employers with unemployed city residents who meet certain qualifications, said Mayor Gavin Newsom, who dubbed it ‘the most significant jobs program ever in San Francisco.’  To qualify, candidates must live in San Francisco, have at least one child, and earn less than twice the federal poverty level, he said.  Applicants will be screened and matched with potential employers for interviews.  The city will then use $25 million in federal stimulus funds to subsidize successful candidates' salaries until September 2010, or whenever stimulus funds run out, Newsom said.  ‘It sounds almost too good to be true,’ Newsom told dozens of reporters, city workers and job-seekers at the One Stop Employment Center on Mission Street, where several JOBS NOW! openings are posted on the wall.  ‘But it does the one thing the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act should be doing, and that's creating jobs.’  More than 200 formerly unemployed San Franciscans have already been matched with employers and are now working full-time through the initiative, Newsom said.  That includes Tracey Gutierres, a mother of four teenagers who was laid off from her retail job at Mervyn's last year and is now working as a book-scanner for a non-profit company in the Presidio.  ‘The biggest difference - it's taken off a lot of stress,’ said Gutierres, who lives in San Francisco's Excelsior neighborhood.” [KPIX – CBS, 8/13/09]

 

Recovery Act allotment to Monterey-Salinas transit balanced the agency’s budget, prevented job losses, and decreased the cost of transportation to consumers.  “At its Monday meeting, Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) board of directors agreed to pay it forward.  This June MST received $7.6 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment (AARA) funds.  Usually referred to as stimulus funds, the money allowed MST to adopt a balanced budget without service cuts, fare increases or job loss.  And now, the savings realized by using a portion of the stimulus funds to pay off a long term debt on new buses will be passed along directly to MST passengers.  Beginning Sept. 5, MST cash fares will be temporarily reduced a quarter from $2.50 to $2.25 and 15 cents from $1.25 to $1.10 for discounted passengers (65 years or older, individuals with disabilities, Medicare Card holders, or children 46’ tall to 18 years old) until Memorial Day weekend.  RIDES cash fares will also be temporarily reduced a quarter per zone from $3.00 to $2.75. No other passes or fare media is eligible for the discount. The average savings for a person commuting weekdays to and from work or school from this promotion amounts to almost $100 each. That savings allows MST passengers to keep more of their income for daily necessities like food, medicine and other purchases.  Recent studies show that every dollar spent at a local, independent business has a ‘multiplier effect’ of an additional 68 cents, as these funds are spent by business owners, their employees and suppliers as they make subsequent purchases for goods and services in the local economy.  Based on staff estimates, the $320,000 that passengers would ultimately save on fares during the promotion and spent on other items could have a total local economic impact of as much as $538,000.” [Salinas Californian, 8/12/09]

 

Recovery Act funding enabled the summer youth employment program to employ 20 young people as Baldwin Park City Hall interns.  “Local teens and young adults started their first day at City Hall working under the Summer Youth Employment Program on Monday.  Unemployment in Baldwin Park is about 14 percent, according to state figures.  Patricia Araujo, 19, was one of the 20 new interns eager to get started right away at Baldwin Park City Hall.  ‘This is my first job and I'm excited to have a good work experience and be able to work in an office,’ Araujo said.  Araujo attends the Baldwin Park Adult School where she first heard about the program.” [Pasadena Star-News, 8/10/09]

 

Recovery Act Funds allocated to three airports for secure baggage processing. “Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today announced approximately $42 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for the construction of new inline baggage handling systems at Sacramento International Airport (SMF), Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and Kahului Airport (OGG)-projects designed to streamline passenger check-in and improve explosives detection capabilities.  ‘Recovery Act projects are utilizing the latest science and technology to secure our country while creating jobs locally . These new inline explosives detection systems will strengthen airport security and streamline the baggage screening process,’ said Secretary Napolitano.  ‘Using Recovery Act dollars for these important security enhancements in Hawaii and California will infuse funds directly into the local economies and create more jobs for Americans.’  Sacramento International Airport will receive $11 million in ARRA funding while Honolulu International Airport and Kahului Airport will receive $24 and $7 million in Recovery Act funds, respectively, for explosive detection systems.” [Press Release – Dept. of Homeland Security, 8/10/09]

 

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority will use Recovery Act funds to buy 70 hybrid buses, modernizing transit, reducing carbon emissions, and creating jobs.  “The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority board of directors voted unanimously this week to authorize the purchase of 70 environmentally friendly hybrid buses with federal stimulus funding.  The 40-foot diesel hybrid buses will be provided by Gillig LLC, a transit bus manufacturing company based in Hayward, according to VTA officials… ‘The federal stimulus funding is benefiting the Bay Area several ways,’ VTA General Manager Michael T. Burns said in a statement.  ‘First Santa Clara County residents reap the environmental benefits from these buses.  Secondly, the local economy benefits because VTA will be purchasing these buses from a bus manufacturer located in Hayward,’ Burns said.  Gillig LLC President Dennis Howard said that 35 jobs are being created and sustained by the bus purchase contract, which will support 1,272 suppliers, vendors, and other indirect support jobs.” [KPIX – CBS, 8/9/09]

 

Roughly 1,200 teenagers found jobs as Long Beach youth employment placement organizations saw resources increase four-fold with Recovery Act infusions.  “Federal stimulus dollars have put about 1,200 local teens to work in professional fields this summer in and around Long Beach amid one of the toughest job markets in memory.  The youth job program run through the city experienced a nearly 400 percent increase in paid employment this summer thanks to some $2.7 million in special federal funding.  For 17-year-olds Chris Martinez and Phyreoun Chea, the influx of cash offered an opportunity to earn some money and learn new skills working about 25 hours a week at the Port of Long Beach, where they're receiving a crash course on police work at the port's security division.  ‘There's a lot of ex-military people working with us, showing us how security is handled at the port, taking us to meetings, explaining reports and technology and taking us into the field,’ said Chea, a Poly High student who plans to join the Army after graduation in June. ” [Long Beach Press Telegram, 8/9/09]

 

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Stanford Linear Accelerator Center received Recovery Act funds for research and inventory.  “The U.S. Department of Energy announced a new round of federal stimulus funding this week for scientific research, including boosts for two Bay Area research facilities.  The $327 million of designated funds include $37.8 million for Berkeley's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and $21.8 million for the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC) in Menlo Park, according to Energy Secretary Steven Chu.”  Secretary Chu:  “These initiatives will help create new jobs while allowing the U.S. to maintain its scientific leadership and competitiveness.  The projects provide vital funding and new tools for research aimed at strengthening America's energy security and tackling some of science's toughest challenges.” [KPIX – CBS, 8/9/09]

 

Large Recovery Act grant disbursed to Sacramento International Airport for more advanced baggage system.  “Homeland Security officials announced today they are awarding Sacramento International Airport $11 million for a baggage handling system at the airport's planned new central terminal.  The funding is part of the federal economic stimulus program.  The baggage system will include explosive-detection devices, federal officials said.  ‘It's another step in making Sacramento airport a state-of-the-art facility, which, in turn, bolsters our efforts to create jobs in our city,’ said Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson, who met recently with federal Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano.  The airport is in construction on a $1 billion expansion, which will include a four-story central terminal. The federal funds are expected to pay 90 percent of the cost of the new terminal's baggage conveyance system.” [Modesto Bee, 8/7/09]

 

San Mateo County’s domestic violence agency received a half-million dollar Recovery Act  grant.  “CORA, the county’s cash-strapped domestic violence agency, received a half-million dollar federal grant this week, only days after cutting its staff and services under the weight of state budget cuts.  The $500,000 infusion is part of $2.9 million in federal recovery funds awarded to six California transitional housing programs by the Office on Violence Against Women Recovery Act Transitional Housing Program…  The shaky economy makes the grants even more necessary, according to the Department of Justice.”  Attorney General Holder:  “The most vulnerable in our society too often bear the greatest burden in times of economic hardship which is why dedicating these funds to help survivors and their families get back on their feet is a concrete example of the Recovery Act at work.” [San Mateo Daily Journal, 8/7/09]

 

California received Recovery Act funds aimed at improving technology in the classroom.  “California has received $71.6 million more in federal stimulus funds aimed at improving technology in the classroom, state officials announced today.  The funding will support the state's Enhancing Education Through Technology Program, which provides grants to school districts for computers, software, equipment and training to help students become technologically literate.  ‘Teachers who effectively use technology to enhance learning are needed to help prepare students for success in the hypercompetitive global economy,’ said state Superintendent O'Connell in a written statement.  ‘I appreciate President Barack Obama's and Education Secretary Arne Duncan's support for education technology and thank the U.S. Department of Education for granting California this award.  This will certainly help improve the educational experience for California students during these economically challenging times.’” [Orange County Register, 8/6/09]

 

CA schools will use Recovery Act funding to backfill “severe budget cuts,” pay for vocational training. “[T]he U.S. Department of Education´s decision to accelerate payments to states receiving federal education recovery funds will make a huge difference for cash-strapped California schools… The Department of Education also released requirements for approximately $12.6 billion in Phase 2 State Fiscal Stabilization Funds and $4 billion in Race to the Top competitive grants… ‘The race to the top is on in the Golden State with this great news for California schools,’ said Romero (D-East Los Angeles).  ‘It allows for greater flexibility in the short term as schools work through severe budget cuts, while maintaining an ongoing commitment to major education reform.  I will continue to work with my fellow legislators to ensure that there are no barriers preventing California schools from receiving these much-needed federal funds.’” [California Chronicle, 8/6/09]

 

Central Coast Energy Services will use Recovery Act funds to hire 90 workers, weatherize thousands of families’ homes.  “A big increase in stimulus funding for the Central Coast Energy Services will go toward helping thousands of low-income families in the Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito and south Santa Clara counties weatherize their homes and save money on power expenses.  The organization expects to receive $4 million over the next two years from the Department of Energy's weatherization assistance program as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the CCES announced this week…  With the anticipated increase in funding, the CCES is providing jobs for more than 90 people in a door-to-door outreach campaign, outreach supervisors, weatherization crew and office employees.” [Santa Cruz Sentinel, 8/6/09]

 

Long Beach will use Recovery Act funds to train workers to decontaminate brownfields.  “Long Beach's Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network is one of four agencies to receive nearly $2 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding to provide job training to survey and clean up contaminated sites or ‘brownfields’… ‘Through this Recovery Act funding, EPA and our community partners will provide training and environmental career opportunities to California residents,’ Laura Yoshii, the EPA's acting regional administrator for the Pacific Southwest, said in a statement. ‘These grants will help ensure that a trained work force is ready to clean up contaminated sites and revitalize them for productive reuse in our communities.’” [Long Beach Press-Telegram, 8/5/09]

 

Long Beach and 15 other cities will use stimulus funds to install trash filters to prevent water contamination.  “Long Beach, Downey, Paramount, Signal Hill, Compton and South Gate and 10 other cities will benefit from a $10 million federal grant that will help them curb thousands of tons of trash from streaming into the Los Angeles River.  The LA Gateway Region Integrated Regional Water Management Authority announced Wednesday that it will use the $10 million in American Reinvestment and Recovery Act funds to design and install about 4,000 trash-capturing devices in 16 cities where trash flows into the river through their storm drains.  ‘The vast majority of the trash that ends up on our beaches is generated by the upstream cities, and these funds will make a huge difference in stopping trash before it even enters the Los Angeles River,’ Mayor Bob Foster said in a statement. ‘This is a great step in the right direction.’” [Long Beach Press-Telegram, 8/5/09]

 

San Bernardino will use Recovery Act funds to provide 2,000 unemployed locals with skills for jobs in transportation, the green sector, and healthcare.  “San Bernardino County officials have approved $3.2 million in federal stimulus money to fund job training programs that will help some 2,000 of the county's idled workers, according to a statement.  The county's Workforce Investment Board voted to approve the plan Tuesday night.  The next step will be to enter into contracts with schools, hospitals and other sites that will train people for some of the largest employment sectors in Inland Southern California -- or at least the sectors that did much of the hiring before the recession.  The county will focus on training people in health care, transportation and logistics, aviation, manufacturing and green industries… The result is expected to produce new professionals, from nurses to welders, in the next year or so.” [Riverside Press-Enterprise, 8/5/09]

 

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory acquired Recovery Act funding for development of renewable energy.  “The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced that the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) will receive $40.3 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to support research in biofuels, fusion energy and the nation’s power grid and to ensure scientists have state-of-the-art equipment for their  investigations.  This new funding is in addition to the $115.8 million allocated to Berkeley Lab in March by the DOE Office of Science, which received a total of $1.6 billion in ARRA funding from Congress.  Most of those funds were allocated to the 10 National Laboratories the Office oversees.”  Energy Secretary Chu:  “These new initiatives will help the U.S. maintain its scientific leadership and economic competitiveness while creating new jobs.  The projects provide vital funding and new tools for research aimed at strengthening America’s energy security and tackling some of science’s toughest challenges.” [Press Release – Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 8/5/09]

 

Stanford University School of Medicine used Recovery Act allocation to save or create 34 research jobs and created 22 jobs for young people.  “The Stanford University School of Medicine is using $18 million of federal stimulus funding to create or retain ‘at least’ 34 new or threatened research jobs, school officials said Tuesday.  In addition, the medical school has created 22 summer positions for high school and college students using $200,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.  Stanford officials said the bigger pot of augmented research funding, made available through the National Institutes of Health using ARRA funds, has been used to help support research on the roots of pain, eye disease, cancer, tissue engineering and transplantation, among other areas.” [San Francisco Business Times, 8/4/09]

 

The Riverside County Workforce Development Board used Recovery Act funds to employ 200 young people.  “Maria Fermin used about two-thirds of her first paycheck from her first job – about $128 – to give her mother money for food and gas.  It's not because the 14-year old's family is hard up, but because she wants to pay them back for their generosity, Maria said Wednesday at Fairmount Park.  ‘They spoil me,’ she said. Maria is among the almost 200 Riverside youths ages 14 to 24 that are working this summer thanks to about $600,000 in stimulus funds received through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The funds came through a grant from the Riverside County Economic Development Agency and the Riverside County Workforce Development Board.” [Riverside Press-Enterprise, 8/1/09]

 

ABC Construction began a Recovery Act-funded airport taxiway project in San Diego, supplying companies with jobs during downturn.  “Angling to get the most bang for the federal buck, President Barack Obama wants much of the government's economic stimulus money poured into shovel-ready projects.  Mario Montes has his shovel and he is ready.  ‘This is good,’ Montes said. ‘This is going to help.’  The Spring Valley laborer will be among the first to feel the direct impact of at least $1.77 billion in federal stimulus funds heading to San Diego County.  Today, Montes and other employees of ABC Construction in Logan Heights will begin a three-week job overhauling taxiways at Gillespie Field in El Cajon.  The $1.4 million project is one of the first local initiatives started under the stimulus plan.” [San Diego Union Tribune, 7/27/09]

 

Roughly 1,800 young people in San Bernardino County obtained jobs and internships by means of Recovery Act allocation.  “By the end of the summer, Gino Saltalamacchia will have earned more than $2,000 thanks to one of his favorite relatives - Uncle Sam.  Gino, a senior at Ontario High School, along with about 1,800 other San Bernardino County young adults will be paid for internships at local businesses.  Funding comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, part of what is commonly referred to as the stimulus package.  Gino is interning at John Elway's Crown Toyota in Ontario as a service technician making $9 an hour.  He and 16 of his classmates received the opportunity through The Career Institute, an organization specializing in career education and life planning.  ‘It gives us the feeling of being real mechanics,’ said Gino, who is saving money for his own car. ‘I've gotten experience that I would have never learned from a textbook.’” [Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, 7/26/09]

 

Several Recovery Act-funded projects are under way in Kern County, from bridge replacement endeavors to massive expansion of Delano water system to accommodate 80,000 to improving Edwards Air Force Base.  “By the end of this summer, work will begin on a $13 million replacement of the Chester Avenue bridge over Garces Circle.  When it's done, a $33 million wastewater treatment plant expansion will allow Delano to accommodate more than 80,000 people.  And about $39 million in road building, light repairing and energy conservation projects will improve the safety and quality of life at Edwards Air Force Base.  Those are some of the ways federal stimulus funds are being spent in Kern County.  As of last Wednesday, Kern has been awarded more than $200 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds, according to the state… While trying to generate support for the legislation, the Obama administration predicted the 22nd Congressional District -- which includes most of Bakersfield -- stood to see 8,400 created or retained jobs. [Bakersfield Californian, 7/25/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded projects and programs in San Diego are projected to create 19,200 jobs; projects include bus lane broadening and gang suppression initiatives.  “At least $1.77 billion in federal stimulus money is headed to projects and programs in San Diego County, from the trolley in San Ysidro to bus lanes in Oceanside to gang suppression in Lemon Grove.  Projects include small purchases, such as a $9,649 wood chipper for Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, and major undertakings, such as a $563 million hospital at Camp Pendleton.  The San Diego Union-Tribune built a database to track the spending, including project costs, construction schedules, contract awards and jobs created… About 60 projects have been assigned start dates, including 15 to start by August, 30 later in the year and a dozen next year.  Only a few planners have given estimates of the jobs created by their project, and those jobs total 9,215.  Using a government formula, the money invested in San Diego County might be expected to create 19,200 jobs.” [San Diego Union Tribune, 7/26/09]

 

In Marin County, 4 law enforcement organizations were bolstered by Recovery Act funding for program curriculum and equipment.  “Four law enforcement agencies in Marin County have been awarded more than $250,000 in federal stimulus money for programs and equipment.  The money was distributed under the $1.98 billion Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program, part of the $4 billion approved for law enforcement agencies under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  Nearly $69 million was allocated to public safety agencies in California, including the Marin County Sheriff's Office, the San Rafael Police Department, the Novato Police Department and the San Anselmo Police Department.  San Rafael police will use a $109,105 grant to restore the San Rafael Citizen Police Academy, which introduces city residents and businesspeople to the workings of the police department.” [Marin Independent Journal, 7/25/09]

 

The Indio Win Center employed 220 young people for the summer with Recovery Act funds.  “An Indio Win Center summer work program funded by economic stimulus money is helping local teens get hired for jobs.  There are 220 youth, mostly from Indio, ranging from ages 14 to 24 involved in the Indio Win Center’s Summer Work Experience Program, said Angie Barajas, SWEP program coordinator from the Indio Win Center.  Some of the youth will be hired at the work sites they are now working for, like Max Lopez, 19, of Coachella, whose work experience site is Marshalls store of La Quinta.  The College of the Desert student said he was very excited when he found out that he would be hired to work for Marshalls after his program ends in a week and a half.  ‘I am the only one making money for my family, but my father is on medical leave,’ he said on Friday. ‘I am helping them out.’ The Indio Win Center has year-long work experience programs, Barajas said. In May, the Indio Win Center received $440,000 from the Riverside County Economic Development Agency through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the SWEP Program.” [Desert Sun, 7/25/09]

 

The long-planned Manteca Transit Center will finally be built thanks to Recovery Act money.  “Manteca’s long-stalled transit center planned for Moffat Boulevard at South Main Street is moving forward thanks to an infusion of federal stimulus funds.  The city has received the first half of $1.3 million the Manteca Transit system was allocated as part of the federal Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding.  The money received so far will go toward environmental and engineering studies for the transit station ($380,000); a marketing plan that includes rebranding, signage, and brochures ($40,000); the purchase of an additional fixed route bus ($100,000); and funds for the operations lease of the next Manteca Transit facility ($130,000).” [Manteca Bulletin, 7/25/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will allow the Chico Unified School District to save about 40 teaching and staff positions.  “The Chico Unified School District will use a portion of its federal stimulus dollars to retain the equivalent of 40 full-time positions.  The district planned on using $4.4 million of about $8.5 million in stimulus to reduce further budget cuts.  On Wednesday, the board approved a plan to direct the money to eight programs, and retain about 40 teaching and staff positions.  Another portion of the remaining stimulus may be used to create 13 teaching specialist positions and could lead to the rehiring of some previously laid-off teachers.  Board President Jann Reed said the stimulus spending will help a wide array of students, including top-performing pupils and those who need additional help.” [Contra Costa Times, 7/24/09]

 

Petaluma will use Recovery Act funds to pave two roads.  “The city will pave two stretches of roads with funding from the federal recovery program, and may have enough left over for a third project.  The City Council on Monday agreed to spend $665,000 in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for paving sections of Ely Road and Sunnyslope Avenue.  The city received $1.1 million in stimulus funding for the road projects, but bids from contractors came in far below original estimates.  The city is currently exploring whether the remaining $440,000 could be used for another project.” [Petaluma Argus-Courier, 7/23/09]

 

The Santa Clara Valley Water District will use Recovery Act funds to continue to develop its recycled water program.  “About $4.3 million granted to the Santa Clara Valley Water District will be used to continue to develop short-term and long-term aspects of its South County Recycled Water Master Plan.  Specifically, the funds will help pay for about five miles of pipelines emanating from the South County Wastewater treatment facility in south Gilroy.  With the county entering its fourth consecutive year of a drought, expanding the capacity and reliability of the wastewater and recycled water system will save critical resources and preserve drinking water, according to water district officials and staff.  Furthermore, it could save money for farms, golf courses and large-scale landscaping operators who use substantial volumes of water for irrigation.” [Morgan Hill Times, 7/23/09]

 

Over 170 young people benefited from jobs in California Conservation Corps thanks to Recovery Act dollars.  “Five California Conservation Corps crews are busy doing work in San Luis Obispo in the first summer of a two-year program coordinated with Cuesta College.  The American Recovery Reinvestment Act — the federal economic stimulus package — is funneling nearly $855,000 into the program, aimed at giving job skills and confidence to as many as 170 youngsters who have neither now.  The participants, ranging from 16 to 22 years old, are from low-income families — and some are homeless or from dysfunctional families.  The young workers, mostly from Paso Robles, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, Nipomo and Oceano, can earn up to $2,550 through the summer if they work every day, 40 hours a week, according to Bill Nolan, who is coordinating the training programs for the corps.” [San Luis Obispo Tribune, 7/23/09]

 

Santa Clara County will undertake a pavement project using Recovery Act funds; the first county road project funded by Recovery Act.  “Santa Clara County will start the construction of the Montague Pavement Project, phase three, this month.  This is the first county road project funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The construction of the $3 million project will start at the end of July and be complete by the end of September.”  Congressman Honda:  “I'm heartened to see the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act helping people in our community.  This federal investment is needed to improve our local roads, maintain good-paying jobs, and relieve some of the financial burden on local governments during budget shortfalls.  With this project, the Recovery Act is doing what it was intended to do: promote commerce, jobs, and economic recovery.” [Milipitas Post, 7/22/09]

 

The Central Valley region has seen variety of Recovery Act awards, spurring transportation efforts and affordable housing construction, and creating thousands of summer jobs.  “The federal government's stimulus package is coming to the Valley -- and there is something for everyone.  From tax relief to retraining.  From new solar panels on schools to refurbished airport taxiways.  From traffic signals to freeway extensions. From new apartment complexes to renovated houses.  The money is starting to flow -- and is finding a home in the Valley… Some federal money already is being put to work in the Valley. For example, the Fresno County Workforce Investment Board got $18 million in stimulus money, said Pam Lassetter, assistant director.  The board is using most of it to help put 3,000 students in summer jobs, provide vocational training to former Elkhorn Correctional Facility youths and to teach adults who lost their jobs new skills in health care and other expanding industries.” [Fresno Bee, 7/22/09]

 

The San Diego school system budgeted Recovery Act money for retrofitting its bus fleet to reduce pollution; jobs will be created and children’s lungs will be protected.  “San Diego Unified has become among the first school districts in the nation using federal stimulus money to retrofit school buses with a pollution control device.  The Obama administration devoted $88 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding to cleaning up diesel engines nationwide, with a focus on school buses.  ‘San Diego officials, in particular, wasted no time in parlaying this money into real, on-the-ground projects that are providing jobs and protecting children's lungs at the same time,’ Mary D. Nichols, chair of the state Air Resources Board, said in a statement.” [San Diego Union-Tribune, 7/22/09]

 

Recovery Act grant sourced to Hydrogen Energy International for power plant that converts coal and waste petroleum into cleaner gas.  “A proposed power plant in Southern California that would turn coal and waste petroleum into cleaner-burning gas has garnered support from the state and stimulus funds from the federal government.  Hydrogen Energy International LLC – a partnership of BP Alternative Energy and Australian miner Rio Tinto Hydrogen – is proposing the plant for Kern County near Bakersfield.  The 250-megawatt facility is designed to filter out 90 percent of its carbon dioxide for permanent underground storage in an adjacent oil field… The plant was recently awarded a $308 million grant from the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.”  Energy Secretary Chu:  ”These new technologies will not only help fight climate change, they will also create new jobs and position the United States as a leader in carbon capture and storage technologies for many years.” [New York Times, 7/20/09]

 

Recovery Act funds applied to blackout-avoidance research by Zenergy in San Francisco.  “Zenergy Power Inc. got more than $8 million from the Department of Energy to design, test and demonstrate technology that temporarily absorbs power to avoid blackouts. South San Francisco-based Zenergy’s fault current limiter has been described as a ‘surge protector for the electric grid.’… The DOE award will help Zenergy build a larger fault current limiter capable of absorbing more power that can be installed at an electric transmission station. ‘Our fault current limiter is a device that protects the breakers and transformers,’ said Zenergy CEO Woody Gibson.  ‘It absorbs like a big sponge and just soaks up that power.’  The Department of Energy money is part of a $57 million program in the Recovery and Reinvestment act dedicated to advance the smart grid.  The Department of Energy said Monday it had assigned $47 million of that so far.  A Westborough, Mass.-based competitor, American Superconductor, got $7.6 million for a fault current limiter that uses a different type of technology.” [San Francisco Business Times, 7/20/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will pay for new hire in Sheriff’s Department and equipment to alleviate DNA processing backlog.  “A backlog of DNA samples at the Sheriff’s Office that could help solve crimes will finally get looked at due to extra help being hired, paid for with federal stimulus funds.  A $108,000 grant will help pay for an additional person at the San Mateo crime lab to run tests on some of the 80 cases that need DNA, or forensic biology — any bodily fluid recovered at a crime scene — examined, according to Jim Granucci, the lab’s director… The lab is among dozens of departments and programs in San Mateo County that have received or are expected to receive an estimated $32 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, approved in February.” [San Francisco Examiner, 7/19/09]

 

Recovery Act dollars expanded funding for Orange County workforce agencies, supplying young people with their first employment experience.  “Sarah Isaacs expects the first paycheck of her life on July 20… Isaacs, an incoming 11th-grader at Nova Academy in Santa Ana, started a summer job this month at the Women's Health Care Center at UC Irvine Medical Center in Orange.  She is one of about 2,000 Orange County teens and young adults receiving summer jobs through the $787 billion federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, or ‘stimulus.’  The stimulus includes about $1.2 billion for youth employment and training, 16 percent of which is allotted to California.  Congress asked most of that money to be used for summer jobs.  Orange County is receiving about $6.6 million, which represents a major boost for youth summer job programs.  In recent years, the programs either didn't exist or relied on private funding, according to local workforce officials.” [Orange County Register, 7/19/09]

 

Receipt of Recovery Act neighborhood funds anticipated to create roughly 40 jobs.  “Vallejo is getting more than $300,000 in federal neighborhood recovery funds, Rep. George Miller's, D-Martinez, office announced Thursday.  The bulk of Vallejo's money will go toward finishing an ongoing project in the 100 block of Benson Avenue in the Vallejo Heights section of town, Senior Community Development Analyst Guy Ricca said.  The rest will go toward street paving this fall in the Country Club Crest neighborhood, he added. ‘We'll be creating jobs with these projects,’ Ricca said.  City staff estimates the Benson Street project will create 30 full-time construction jobs for up to six weeks.  The Crest job will create nine full-time jobs for about a week, they estimate.” [Vallejo Times-Herald, 7/17/09] 

 

Buck Institute receives Recovery Act-funded grant for age research for the study of neuron behavior in the brains of elderly stroke victims.  “The Buck Institute for Age Research in Novato has been awarded $970,000 from the National Institutes of Health as part of the $787 billion federal stimulus package approved earlier this year by Congress.  The grant, which spans two years, will fund research in the lab of Associate Research Professor KunLi Jin.  The work will focus on the function of newborn neurons in aged brains following stroke. [Marin Independent-Journal, 7/16/09]

 

Sausalito ferry dock project will go forward using Recovery Act funds; the construction work is expected to employ about 100 people.  “The Sausalito ferry dock will undergo a $4 million revamp next year that should help alleviate boarding problems brought on by tourists on bikes.  Most of the money for the work – $3.2 million – was handed out by Congress this week as part of federal stimulus funding… The money for the work comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation's discretionary grant program, with funding via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Construction of the dock will employ about 100 workers.  The balance of the project cost, $800,000, will come from bridge district funds.  In 2008, 566,000 passengers rode the Sausalito ferry.” [Contra Costa Times, 7/15/09]

 

Four Pasadena arts organizations received Recovery Act-funded grants.  “The Armory Center for the Arts, Art Center College of Design, the Pasadena Playhouse and the Pasadena Arts Council have received news that they will receive stimulus funds through major grants from the National Endowment for the Arts.  The funding is provided to support the preservation of jobs threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn…” [Pasadena Star-News, 7/15/09]

 

Recovery Act funds were dedicated to green job corps in San Mateo County, providing young people with marketable skills in clean energy-related jobs.  “A San Mateo County social services agency will receive more than $936,000 in federal funds to launch a regional site for the state's Green Job Corps benefiting local at-risk youth.  As part of the program, the youth, aged 16 to 24 years old, will engage in greening activities that include assisting seniors with home weatherization, conducting energy audits at community centers, as well as community education and the restoration of public lands.” [KPIX – CBS, 7/15/09]

 

Butte and Glenn County School Districts obtained energy-efficient and higher quality kitchen equipment financed by Recovery Act.  “Federally-funded extra freezer space, clean ovens, and an energy efficient dishwasher that actually removes gunk will help Butte and Glenn county school districts feed students.  Oroville Elementary School District will buy five energy-efficient ovens that will improve food quality and safety, said district manager Ruthie Allen.  Chico Unified School District will repair a condemned walk-in freezer, buy a delivery van and get an industrial pizza oven and dough machine with the stimulus money it has been allotted, said Tanya Harter, interim director of nutrition services.  ‘It's gonna be great for the students, the community and the economy.’” [Oroville Mercury-Register, 7/13/09]

 

Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County acquired Recovery Act grant to employ 1,000 young people for the summer.  “Stimulus money creates summer jobs for over 1000 Contra Costa youths… Several Martinez businesses are currently taking advantage of the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County’s (WDBCCC) summer youth employment program.  Funded through the Obama Administration’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), the program allows each youth a salary of $8.25 an hour for about 120 hours over the next two months… During June, over 200 county residents aged 14 to 24 completed basic job skills training and were placed in paid positions this week.” [Martinez News-Gazette, 7/12/09]

 

Recovery Act money will fund 4,000 jobs for youths in Riverside and San Bernardino.  “More than 4,000 Inland youths are getting jobs this summer thanks to an influx of more than $10 million in federal dollars from President Barack Obama's stimulus plan.  In tough economic times, those in the younger generation are among the hardest hit by spiking unemployment rates.  Adults with more experience are taking lesser-paying jobs that traditionally go to those just entering the workforce.  The current recession is no exception – and it has hit Riverside and San Bernardino counties as hard as anywhere in the country. [The Press-Enterprise, 7/11/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to retrofit diesel-fuelled school buses with systems that will reduce toxic fume emission.  “The Obama administration has awarded $1.56 million to help clean up 125 dirty diesel school buses in San Diego County… Under the program, the district will replace 12 buses and retrofit the rest.  Work is scheduled to be completed by September 2010.  The local grant was part of a $25 million statewide disbursement announced yesterday and financed by the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act.  The economic stimulus money is largely targeted toward retaining and creating jobs.” [San Diego Union-Tribune, 7/9/09]

 

Millions in Recovery Act funds allocated to Central Valley to reduce air pollution, including school bus particulate filters to protect children’s health.  “Federal stimulus funding of $6 million has been allocated to the Central Valley for air-pollution-control measures, the regional air district announced Wednesday… ‘We've worked hard to apply for this funding,’ said Samir Sheikkh, director of emissions control for the Fresno-based San Joaquin Unified Air Pollution Control District.  ‘It's great to finally receive some of it.’ Sheikkh said $4 million of the just-allocated money will go toward installation of 190 diesel-particulate filters on school buses built in or after 2001.” [Visalia Times-Delta, 7/9/09]

 

Two Sacramento arts organizations received Recovery Act grants to fund projects and activities that preserve jobs in the nonprofit sector.  “The Crocker Art Museum and the Sacramento Philharmonic are two of 631 nonprofit arts organizations awarded grants from the National Endowment for the Arts as part of President Barack Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009… The grants, announced Tuesday, are intended to fund arts projects and activities that preserve jobs in the nonprofit arts sector imperiled by the recent economic downturn.  The $50,000 allows the Crocker to regain one of two positions it lost recently – a gallery facilitator.” [Sacramento Bee, 7/9/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will revive 31 affordable housing projects across the state.  “Treasurer Bill Lockyer today announced the distribution of more than $310 million in federal stimulus money to revive 31 ‘shovel-ready’ affordable housing projects throughout the state, and create more than 5,000 jobs and 2,015 rental units for low-income families and individuals.” [YubaNet, 7/8/09]

 

The Bakersfield Airport will use Recovery Act funds to repave a taxiway, upgrade the electrical system, and purchase new LED runway lights.  “A new construction project is taking flight at Meadows Field, thanks to an influx of funds from the federal government… ‘This is one of the first stimulus projects under construction in the county. We're super excited about it putting residents in Kern County back to work,’ said Deputy Airports Director Matt Maas.  Airport officials expect the project to be completed in the fall.” [KGET – NBC, 7/8/09]

 

Children’s Musical Theater San Jose received Recovery Act grant to preserve jobs threatened by declines in philanthropic support.  “Children’s Musical Theater San Jose said it was given a $50,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.  The money is earmarked ‘to support the preservation of jobs that are threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn,’ CMTSJ said, adding that it is the only San Jose performing arts group to receive NEA’s jobs preservation funding.” [San Jose Business Journal, 7/8/09]

 

$32,000 in Recovery Act funds will allow San Joaquin’s emergency food and shelter program to continue providing food.  “San Joaquin County's Emergency Food and Shelter Program has received $32,101 in federal stimulus funds to buy food for families in need when charitable donations have fallen short.  The grant will allow the county's Human Services Agency to purchase wholesale food products to be distributed to eight community centers and then to the public in need.” [Stockton Record, 7/8/09]

 

$928,364 in Recovery Act funds designated for housing programs for Native Americans and the disabled in Sacramento.  The Sacramento County Housing Authority will receive funding under the Designated Housing Fund, to provide housing for disabled families.  Buena Vista Rancheria, home to the Me-Wuk Indian Tribe, will receive funding through the Indian Housing Block Grant Program to provide decent, safe and affordable housing for lower-income Native Americans.  Congresswoman Matsui:  “I have heard from many Sacramento families throughout the past year.  Most of whom are burdened during this volatile economic time.  I am happy to announce these additional grant awards, which will provide for those most affected during this period.  With unemployment rates continuing to rise, this funding could not have come at a more crucial time.”  [Press Release – U.S. Representative Doris Matsui, 7/7/09]

 

Two Long Beach arts organizations use Recovery Act funds to retain jobs.  Long Beach Opera and the Khmer Arts Academy will each receive $50,000 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  Grants will be awarded through the National Endowment for the Arts.”  Rep. Laura Richardson:  “We know that when children are participating in the arts, they have more balance and are more likely to succeed academically.  Therefore, it is important to help these outstanding organizations preserve jobs during these tough economic times so that they can continue to engage our youth and play a positive role in their academic and social maturity.” [Long Beach Press-Telegram, 7/7/09]

 

$3.95 million in Recovery Act resources granted to Elkhorn Slough Wetlands for underwater dam, preventing loss over 500 acres in next 50 years.  “The eroding tidal wetlands of Elkhorn Slough will get the structural support it needs, thanks to financial support from the federal government.  The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration issued a $3.95 million grant to the Elkhorn Slough Foundation on Tuesday to build an underwater dam for erosion control in the 750-acre wetland… The construction of the dam will provide about 130 jobs and reduce tidal currents that erode embankments.” [Monterey County Herald, 7/6/09]

 

Millions in Recovery Act funds appropriated for Rancho California Water District pipeline construction, creating 283 jobs while increasing regional water reserves.  “The Rancho California Water District is getting $6.2 million in federal stimulus money for a pipeline that will allow the Temecula-based district to boost its water reserves… The project will create 283 jobs over the next several years, according to Rancho Water.  The project is scheduled to go out to bid in October, with construction starting in January.” [Riverside Press-Enterprise, 7/6/09]

 

$1.1 million in Recovery Act funds announced for repaving Bush Street Segment.  “The $1.1 million awarded to The City to repave Bush Street east of Presidio Avenue took total funding pledged to overhaul San Francisco’s streets under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to $13.5 million, according to Department of Public Works figures.  Bush Street repaving efforts are scheduled to begin by December, Transportation Finance Analyst Simone Jacques told The City’s Capital Planning Committee Monday.  Roads previously scheduled to be repaved using federal stimulus funds include long stretches of Turk Street, Jones Street and Divisadero Street and parts of Laguna Honda Boulevard and Seventh Avenue.” [San Francisco Examiner, 7/6/09]

 

Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board acquired $9 Million in Recovery Act funding for transportation projects.  “The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board, which oversees Caltrain service in San Mateo, Santa Clara and San Francisco counties, will receive a $9 million grant for track, bridge, signal and bicycle improvements… The San Mateo County Transit District will receive a $7 million grant to purchase buses and for preventive maintenance.”  Rep. Eshoo:  “These grants will help keep our trains and buses running safely and on time, while creating new jobs and investing in our regional economy.” [Menlo Park Almanac, 7/5/09]

 

$400,000 in Recovery Act funding to provide job training and education for gang-susceptible young people in San Joaquin County.  “The San Joaquin County Office of Education has been awarded a $400,000 grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help provide job training and education to 14- through 24-year-olds who are considered at-risk to join gangs or are trying to leave gangs.  Job-related training will be in fields such as solar-panel construction, building-material recycling and hazardous waste handling.  Some programs also will offer paid work experience and job placement.” [Stockton Record, 7/5/09]

 

Ventura County allocated $500,000 in Recovery Act funds for cafeteria equipment.  “State officials announced Wednesday that school districts throughout California will share more than $12.8 million for food service equipment, part of the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding.  The one-time equipment grants will help districts and other agencies replace outdated and inefficient food preparation tools to boost the amount and quality of meals offered to students, state officials said.  Statewide, 242 school food authorities received grants in 48 counties, state officials said.  Nine districts received grants in Ventura County, for a total of about $500,000.” [Ventura County Star, 7/3/09]

 

$312,217 in Recovery Act funds targeted to buy school cafeteria equipment in Salinas area.  “Six school districts in Monterey County received a total of $312,217 in federal stimulus money Wednesday for cafeteria equipment. The Equipment Assistance Grants are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The one-time money can be used to buy new kitchen and cafeteria equipment… Districts receiving grants also include Monterey Peninsula Unified ($105,336), Salinas City Elementary ($44,907), Soledad Unified ($42,590), King City Union ($24,310) and Gonzales Unified ($22,960).” [Salinas Californian, 7/2/09]

 

Over $4 million in Recovery Act resources applied to 9 organizations assisting nearly 600 construction workers with job retraining, crime reduction, and more.  California Recovery Task Force Director Cynthia Bryant:  “We are working around the clock to bring Recovery Act funding into the California economy quickly and responsibly.  Used for their federally designated purpose, these grants will further stimulate local economies by redirecting residential construction workers into growth industries and providing job training for local at-risk youth.” [Press Release – Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, 7/1/09]

 

Recovery Act-enabled hydrogen energy California project will Supply 1,500 jobs and bring clean energy to 150,000 homes.  “When built, HECA will bring clean power to over 150,000 homes in the local community, create new jobs and avoid the emissions of more than two million tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere every year… Hydrogen Energy International estimates that the project will create up to 1,500 construction jobs and up to 100 permanent green collar jobs.” [Press Release – Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, 7/1/09]

 

Green Job Corps acquired $1 million from Recovery Act to foster green energy development and create jobs in long beach, train 125 at-risk youths.  “The Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Board, one of 11 regional programs receiving money, will get $935,797 of federal funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Long Beach-based Green Job Corps partners will match the federal funds with resources, resulting in almost $2 million in green job training and community service opportunities in the area, city officials said.”  Long Beach Mayor:  “I'm delighted to see these Recovery Act funds awarded to Long Beach and our regional partners. These funds will help provide important training to our youth in the emerging green jobs economy.” [Long Beach Press-Telegram, 7/1/09]

 

National Accelerator Laboratory hiring 60-100 new employees with $68.3 million in Recovery Act resources; had been forced to make layoffs in 2008.  “The funding is allowing the multi-program laboratory to launch new projects – and hire new employees… SLAC is offering a range of jobs: engineers, scientists, software developers, financial analysts, project control professionals and administrators.  The variety of job openings at SLAC, a laboratory operated by Stanford University for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science, marks a major shift from the company's rounds of layoffs in January 2008.  Fifteen percent of the lab, or approximately 125 SLAC employees, received pink slips at that time. ‘I had to announce the largest layoff in the history of the lab,’ SLAC Director Persis Drell said. ‘This year I had the joy of announcing increases in SLAC science budgets as well as millions in new funding from the Recovery Act.’” [Palo Alto Online, 7/1/09]

 

Over $109 million in Recovery Act funding has been directed to health care centers for the disadvantaged across California, compensating for rise in uninsured.  “More than $109 million in grants will be doled out to health centers for low-income people in California and $10 million more will be devoted to training poor and at-risk youth for green-energy jobs as part of the latest round of federal stimulus funding announced Monday.  The funds, provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act signed in February by President Obama, offered a bright spot at a time of mostly bad news about a poor economy and deep state budget cuts… ‘Obama recognizes clinics are seeing this overwhelming increase in the uninsured because people are losing their jobs in this economy,’ said Chris Patterson, spokesman for the California Primary Care Association, which represents about 800 health centers statewide.” [San Francisco Chronicle, 6/30/09]

 

$3.1 million from Recovery Act applied to purchase of 9 new buses for enhancement of Fairfield public transit system.  “Fairfield will receive $3.1 million to buy nine buses.  California is expected to receive nearly $2.6 billion from the Recovery Act for highways and local streets and $1 billion for transit projects.  Competitive programs within the Recovery Act could also provide approximately $300 million in additional funding in this area.  Additionally, California expects to be very competitive in securing a portion of $8 billion Recovery Act funding set aside federally for high-speed and intercity rail.” [Vacaville Reporter, 6/30/09]

 

San Marcos area Head Start and Early Head Start furthered by $270,497 in Recovery Act funds.  Head Start Director:  “The money ‘will go a long way in providing resources for maintaining a high quality program.  With the rising cost of fuel, food and services, we have experienced a tighter budget and have had to lay off staff in the past two years.  These dollars have provided us with an increase in pay for our very deserving staff, funds to maintain quality including building repairs, supplies and equipment, and professional development for our education staff and family service workers.  With the addition of these funds, we are no longer looking at staff reductions but rather the maintenance of a high quality program for the 461 children and families that we serve.” [San Marcos Mercury, 6/29/09]

 

UC Davis professors have created jobs through a flurry of laboratory activity using Recovery Act allotments.  “The $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act signed by President Barack Obama in February included $21.5 billion for scientific endeavors and $33 million to create paid research positions this summer and next for students and science teachers. The goal is to fuel the economy with new jobs while supporting innovations in alternative energy and new medical cures… Sacramento State professor Katherine McReynolds is using her stimulus funds to create summer research jobs for two college students and a high school student… Wenbin Deng, the professor who oversees the lab on Stockton Boulevard, said he sought the $100,000 stimulus grant to give students and teachers a look at the work of professional scientists. [Modesto Bee, 6/29/09]

 

$26 million from Recovery Act directed to AC Transit for paratransit and bus maintenance.  “The money is part of the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act approved earlier this year.  It will be used for preventive maintenance to AC Transit's 643 buses and facilities over a five-month period.  The money will also fund paratransit service for about 81,000 passengers.  Paratransit serves those with disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from using other buses or BART trains.” [San Jose Mercury News, 6/25/09]

 

$26,000 Recovery Act grant to California Polytechnic State University will sponsor student research.  “The National Institutes of Health will make more than $26,000 available for a successful research program at the California Polytechnic State University… The total allocation of $26,543 will allow Cal Poly to hire one high school student and one college undergraduate to conduct original research at Cal Poly this summer and next summer.” [Times Press Recorder, 6/25/09]

 

Monterey-Salinas Transit received $7.6 million in Recovery Act funds Friday.  “‘The funds couldn’t have come at a better time for MST,” said MST General Manager/CEO Carl Sedoryk.  ‘It’s allowed us to adopt a balanced budget without service cuts, fare increases or job loss.’  MST is far exceeding requirements to spend 50 percent of the funds within six months.  Seventy-five percent of the funds were spent immediately completing the purchase of 40 new buses made in California and six trolleys made in the USA.  ARRA funds have also helped preserve coach operator and mechanic jobs from being lost. “This is money that would have had to come from other areas.” [TheCalifornian.com, 6/17/09]

 

$40 Million in Recovery Act funds go to Santa Maria Levee, creating 1,000 jobs and prohibiting future floods.  “Not only will this funding ensure the safety of the citizens of the Santa Maria area, but the project will be a boon to the local economy, creating 1,000 jobs, and saving Santa Marians from having to purchase costly flood insurance… Our economy still has a long way to go, but this package has helped blunt the most negative impact of the economic downturn, and jump-started the recovery process.” [Santa Maria Times, 6/13/09]

 

Recovery Act monies finance solar panels for Yuba City Senior Center, creating jobs and improving energy efficiency.  “The city secured almost $150,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds for projects that emphasize job creation, increased energy efficiency and further economic investment.  City officials decided that installation of solar photovoltaic panels on the senior center's roof would meet those objectives. [Marysville Appeal-Democrat, 6/14/09]

 

Recovery Act funding en route to San Diego State University professors for research on cancer and lung allergies.  “Two San Diego State University science professors have been awarded a combined $1.5 million in federal stimulus money for research that could lead to treatments for cancer and lung allergies.  The stimulus awards, among the first granted to the California State University system, come from the National Institutes of Health, which recently received about $10 billion in stimulus money.” [San Diego Union-Tribune, 6/13/09]

 

“We’re encouraged to see the promises of president Obama paying off sooner rather than later for the Coachella Valley.”  “As President Obama promised Monday to ramp up spending from the $787 billion stimulus fund, the city of Palm Springs and Coachella Valley and Mission Springs water districts received word of $3.1 million available to them. The funds will be dedicated to building a new park and providing clean drinking water to communities on wells that now don't meet safety standards.” [The Desert Sun, Editorial, 6/10/09]

 

The San Diego Workforce Partnership will put 3,000 young people to work thanks to a nearly $24 million infusion from the Recovery Act.  The Partnership says it’s poised to make some dent in the area’s unemployment. [San Diego Business Journal, 6/9/09]

 

Oceanside School District plans to use Recovery Act to rehire 28 laid off teachers. [KFMB-TV CBS News Channel 8, 6/8/09]

 

Battery Producer Imara seeks Recovery Act funds to start manufacturing larger batteries for electric vehicles in the U.S.  “The Recovery Act money would accelerate plans to build that manufacturing capacity here… company hopes we have green careers and not just green jobs.’” [EDN Electronics Design Strategy News, 6/8/09]

 

Recovery Act monies provided for repaving of Green Valley and Diablo Roads, markedly increasing efficiency of local transportation and creating jobs.  Approximately 13,000 vehicles travel on these streets each day.  The project also will upgrade sidewalks, curb ramps and traffic signals on Green Valley Road used by school children.” [Danville Weekly News, 6/7/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to resurface three roads in Menlo Park. [San Jose Mercury News, 6/4/09]

 

Recovery Act funding expected to create 180 jobs in Riverside County.  Federal funds will support youth work experience training and affordable housing projects. [Temecula Valley News, 6/2/09]

 

Lake Elsinore School District employees will not be required to take three unpaid furlough days next year thanks to Recovery Act money. [North County Times, 6/2/09]

 

Hire-A-Youth Program allows for 100 students to enter San Diego State University and gain field-pertinent job experience.  The program is a result of the Recovery Act. [Daily Aztec, 6/1/09]

 

Esperanza is receiving a Recovery Act grant of $875,000 to help identify and clean up lead and other health hazards in 225 homes. [Environmental News Services, 5/15/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will repair exigent Santa Maria River Levee.  Project will improve safety for tens of thousands and create hundreds of jobs. [City of Santa Maria, 5/28/09]

 

EPA awarded $440 million in Recovery Act money to California to fund water projects around the state.  “This money has been a wonderful infusion of cash for the state of California, especially for disadvantaged communities in the state.” [Associated Press, 5/21/09]

 

Banning and Beaumont school districts will offset anticipated losses with Recovery Act funds. [Record Gazette, 5/21/09]

 

Ventura County will receive more than $300,000 in Recovery Act funds for emergency food and shelter programs. [Ventura County Star, 5/21/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will pay for emergency food and shelter in Ventura County. [Ventura County Star, 5/20/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will pay for 200 jobs for young people in Yuba County. [The Appeal-Democrat, 5/20/09]

 

The Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians will receive Recovery Act funds to replace aging water and sewer facilities.  The funding helps projects that local companies must bid for. [The Desert Sun, 5/19/09]

 

City of Turlock allocated $1.8 million in Recovery Act funds to encourage economic recovery and address foreclosed homes.  According to the Turlock Housing Division, the Community Development Block Grant funding could help to draft business plans, conduct Web development, offer job training, or to help construct new infrastructure, possibly with an emphasis on renewable energy. [Turlock Journal, 5/19/09]

 

California motorcycle dealership sales starting to increase.  Dealerships hoping to grow sales by advertising Recovery Act tax break. [Associated Press, 5/17/09]

 

California is the first state in the nation to apply for Recovery Act’s state energy program.  The Energy Commission estimates that retrofitting California's aged and inefficient residential and non-residential structures could save the state's consumers 2.7 billion Btu annually and create over 2,100 jobs. [Environmental Protection, 5/18/09]

 

First construction project in California has begun and is 40 percent under the original cost estimate.  Savings from this project have been directed to advance other highway projects.” [Environmental Protection, 5/18/09]

 

University of California, Irvine, among four universities across the country that will use Recovery Act funds to fund global health studies.  “The money, made possible by the Recovery Act, will preserve and create U.S. jobs in the timely and competitive arena of global health research.” [NIH News, 5/12/09]

 

Recovery Act will allow long-awaited construction to begin on the most congested freeway in the nation.  The freeway work is expected to create about 18,000 jobs.” [LA Times, 5/9/09]

 

About 2,500 Riverside County teenagers and young adults will have summer jobs, thanks to nearly $2.9 million in federal stimulus funds. [Desert Sun Wire Service, 5/8/09]

 

Recovery Act money will go towards seismic repairs, energy-efficient heating, electrical systems, and other work on a federal office building in San Francisco’s U.N. Plaza. [San Francisco Chronicle, 5/10/09]

 

Sec. LaHood said California and Florida are on the fast-track for high-speed rail funding. [UPI, 5/9/09]

 

Garfield Elementary School will likely spend Recovery Act funds to retain reading teacher.  Hayward will retain teachers for another year; San Francisco will train teachers. [San Francisco Chronicle, 5/6/09]

Recovery Act funds expand community rehabilitation programs to strengthen housing and equal access In Pueblo.  “Ron Sims, deputy secretary of HUD, stood outside a house on Santa Clara Avenue being refurbished with part of the $1.7 million in federal money that came to the Pueblo Housing Authority this year as part of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act — the $787 billion stimulus legislation Congress passed last year… Gary Trujillo, an architect with the authority, said the grant money came in March and 80 percent already has been spent in hiring nine contractors to improve more than 300 housing units around the city.  The work included making houses and apartments handicapped accessible and replacing inefficient electrical and heating systems.  The ARRA program was intended to provide businesses with contracts, to keep people working and spark economic recovery.  HUD officials said federal stimulus funds had been used to rehabilitate more than 230,000 homes the past 18 months.  ‘The president wants every county to feel recovery,’ Sims said in his brief remarks.  Peter Wiescamp, owner of Sierra Blanca Plumbing, said the $100,000 in housing rehab contracts his company received were welcomed.  ‘It helped me keep my 10 employees working and I even hired two more,’ Wiescamp said.” [The Pueblo Chieftain, 7/30/10]

 

Mesa County Plans To Utilize Recovery Act Stimulus Grants To Hire 5 New Police Officers And Complete Public Works Projects.  “Tax revenue has been less than dependable since the recession hit.  But grant funding has remained a relatively reliable source of funding for local governments and schools.  Grants make up about one-third of Mesa County’s budget, according to County Administrator Jon Peacock.  The county included nearly $40 million in grants in this year’s budget.  That figure is up slightly from 2009, but grant funding for the county hasn’t wavered much in recent years, Peacock said.  Grant funding supplies a smaller portion of the city of Grand Junction’s budget, less than 5 percent, but it contributes, according to City Financial Operations Director Jodi Romero.  Grants usually don’t patch gaping holes in a budget during tough economic times, but they will keep certain projects off the chopping block, Romero said. ‘We normally use grants for capital projects we wouldn’t otherwise do,’ she said. Romero said the city plans to use $6 million in grants, including $1.4 million in competitive American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants and about a half-million dollars in noncompetitive recovery act money.  Grant dollars will help with energy-efficiency projects, hiring five police officers, and construction of the 29 Road viaduct at Interstate 70 Business Loop this year.  School District 51 received $22.7 million in grants in 2009-10.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act helped increase the portion of federal funding the district received, District 51 spokesman Jeff Kirtland said, but funding from that legislation is beginning to run low.  The district is always looking for grants, Kirtland said, because many mandated programs have grants set aside specifically for them, such as special education, speech therapy and audiology.  ‘We’re always relying on grants for a bump,’ he said. [The Daily Sentinel, 6/28/10]

  

Merced’s Stretch Of Highway 99 Is Being Repaved And Upgraded With Recovery Act Funding, Bringing Jobs To An Area That Has Been Hit Hard By The Ongoing Drought Impacting California’s Farms.  “The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act may sound like one of those Big Government deals that seldom reach Merced, but its impact can be seen right on Highway 99 near the V Street exit.   The large upright steel beams in the median of the highway are part of a project to replace the 48-year-old overpass.  It aims to correct structural deficiencies, improve sight distance for drivers and provide more clearance for the railroad.   Caltrans, which subcontracted RGW Construction Inc., is working on the project.  It will replace the two bridges at the West Merced Overhead and retrofit two Bear Creek bridges, said Chantel Miller, public information officer for Caltrans.  ….  The two Bear Creek bridges are being retrofitted for earthquake safety. Crews will also add vehicle pullouts for maintenance trucks.  The Recovery Act funded all $30 million of the improvements, Miller said. …” [Merced Star Times, 7/1/10]

 

Greyhound Has Purchased Three New Low Emission Buses For Its San Francisco To Los Angeles Route By Using A Recovery Act Stimulus-Funded Caltrans Grants Designed To Reduce Greenhouse Gas Production.  “A private company will use three new buses, purchased using $1.4 million in federal stimulus funds, to carry fare-paying passengers on routes between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Greyhound’s new diesel-fueled buses replaced three older buses, according to company spokesman Timothy Stokes.  ‘Those older buses have been taken out of the fleet,’ Stokes said. ‘The three new buses have been included for schedules between San Francisco and L.A.’  The decision to use the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to buy the buses was made by Caltrans, a state transportation agency.  The new buses will produce less air pollution than the vehicles that they replaced, according to Caltrans spokesman Matt Rocco.  They also will include free WiFi for customers and on-board technology that allows real-time tracking by Greyhound officials…” [San Francisco Examiner, 7/1/10]

 

The Recovery Act Is Funding A Denver Based Program For Developers To Embark On Redevelopment Of Commercial And Residential Property.  “The City and County of Denver has some $12.1 million in federal stimulus loan funds for developers interested in redeveloping foreclosed apartment properties, the Denver Office of Economic Development (OED) said Tuesday.  …. Money for the redevelopment projects comes from the federally funded Neighborhood Stabilization Program 2 (NSP2), part of the Obama Administration’s 2009 stimulus program, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  …” [The Denver Business Journal, 6/8/10]

  

Recovery Act Funds Used To Aid Military Families With Housing. “…. ‘The Homeowners Assistance Program was authorized by Congress in 1966 to provide financial assistance to military and civilian homeowners affected by the real estate market decline due to base realignment and closure,’ Scott Whiteford with the Army Corp. of Engineers said.  Then last year the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act temporarily expanded the program to assist more people.  ‘It expanded the eligibility to military members who are doing permanent change of station, to wounded ill and injured, to surviving spouses,’ Whiteford said. …” [Colorado Connection, 5/27/10]

 

UQM, the producer of the electric powered Coda car, will add hundreds of jobs by the end of the year thanks to a $45 million Recovery Act grant.  “The Coda car gets zero miles per gallon.  It has zero gallons.  But it will go 90 to 120 miles before the battery needs to be recharged.  Coda’s all-electric, four-door, four-passenger sedan looks pretty much like most other small family cars.  Nothing about it screams ‘electric’… UQM had been working on the Coda contract for a year when UQM applied for a federal stimulus grant last May, Rankin said.  In July, UQM signed a 10-year contract with Coda to deliver 20,000 motors a year to the company after it launches the vehicle.  Just days later, UQM found out it would receive a $45 million federal stimulus grant, Rankin said.  In December, UQM used some of that money to buy a 129,304-square-foot building on a 30-acre site in southwest Weld County.  The company used federal grant money to help pay for half of the new building’s $7.6 million price tag.  UQM, which moved to Frederick in 1998, currently has about 70 employees.  It will move its operations from Frederick to the new facility in Weld County this summer and could have as many as 300 employees by early fall, Rankin said.  With the launch of the Coda car, that could be as many as 2,700 workers in a few years, he said.  Rankin said the grant allows UQM a greater chance of success.”  [Reporter Herald, 5/3/10]

 

Vice President Biden praised the Recovery Act in a visit to UQM headquarters, citing its impact on business development and expansion.  “Biden spoke to a crowd of about 800 people Friday afternoon in the new UQM Technologies building — a building the Frederick-based company bought in December with help from a $45 million federal stimulus grant… Biden said the Recovery Act is helping the nation get back on its feet and preparing the country to step into a new future of new energy.  ‘The government is only planting the seeds for this new-energy economy, seeds that will grow into companies like UQM,’ he said.  UQM develops and manufactures electric and hybrid-electric motors and systems.  The company’s motors power buses, farm equipment, military vehicles and, CEO Bill Rankin said, all-electric cars that people soon will be driving to work, on errands and to soccer practices… Biden compared UQM’s receipt of stimulus money to the government’s helping fund a transcontinental railroad.  If the government had not stepped up to help, there is no telling how much farther behind the nation’s development would be, he said.  The government is not the reason UQM is in business, and the federal grant is not why the company is going to be successful, Biden said — ‘but it helps.’  The money will allow UQM to produce at higher volumes and for lower costs, the vice president said.”  [Reporter Herald, 5/1/10]

 

Mesa Verde National Park will use Recovery Act funds to repair retaining walls, install photovoltaic systems, and upgrade an electrical system.  “Upgrades to the already unparalleled world of pre-Puebloan civilization found at Mesa Verde National Park are in store, complements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA)… The replacement of five miles of deteriorated waterline from the north boundary to Chapin Mesa, first installed in 1948, is receiving $11.5 million of the $14.6 million federal stimulus monies granted to Mesa Verde. … The installation of eight photovoltaic systems on historic headquarters buildings for net metering is intended to save $20 thousand annually in electrical costs, lessening green house gas emissions and decreasing Mesa Verde National Park’s carbon footprint.  With the repairing of retaining walls, correcting of trail pitch and slope, and restoring trail surface for Spruce Tree House trail to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, closures of the popular trail are scheduled. … Alternative fuel transit vehicles will replace open-air gas powered trams to Wetherill Mesa, reducing fuel emissions, transporting more visitors, decreasing breakdowns, and amplifying Mesa Verde's experience.”  [The Examiner, 4/28/10]

 

University of Colorado at Boulder received a $15 million Recovery Act grant to construct a research facility for 60 faculty members and 500 students.  “The University of Colorado at Boulder has received another large contribution toward construction of the Jennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building on the university’s East Campus -- this one from the federal stimulus initiative.  The university announced the $15 million grant Tuesday.  The funds are distributed under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act… The 266,400-square-foot Caruthers building is going up on CU-Boulder's east campus, at Colorado Avenue and the Foothills Parkway.  It will house the university's Colorado Initiative in Molecular Biotechnology, the department of chemical and biological engineering, and the biochemistry division of the department of chemistry and biochemistry… Some 60 CU-Boulder faculty as well as 500 graduate students, researchers and support staff are expected to work in the new building… The $15 million stimulus grant was given to CU-Boulder’s Colorado Initiative in Molecular Biotechnology (CIMB) by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a unit of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.”  [Denver Business Journal, 4/28/10]

 

Boulder County Was received Recovery Act funding to install efficient energy systems as a part of the Earth Day ‘Retrofit Ramp-Up’ Initiative.  “Boulder County will receive a portion of $25 million in federal stimulus money for a program for energy-efficiency improvements to residential and commercial buildings, Vice President Joe Biden announced Wednesday.  With the U.S. Department of Energy grant, Boulder County, the lead applicant, will partner with Denver, the city of Boulder, Garfield County, the Governor’s Energy Office and Xcel Energy to fund the Colorado Retrofit Ramp-Up Program… Boulder County commissioners, however, said in a statement that the grant ‘is expected to leverage an investment of $180 million in energy upgrades, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 200,000 tons and generate or retain thousands of green jobs across the region.’  County officials said the funding may be used: to create ‘an energy concierge service’ to provide information to homeowners and businesses; to provide targeted rebates; to expand the county’s existing ClimateSmart Loan Program; and to expand a Two Techs and a Truck program that provides energy-efficiency tests and helps install energy systems.”  [The Longmont Times-Call, 4/22/10]

  

The Bureau of Reclamation allocated $12.2 million in Recovery Act funding to recoat the penstocks at the Flatiron Power Plant.  “The Bureau of Reclamation has received $12.2 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to recoat the penstocks above the Flatiron Power Plant.  Contractor Abhe & Svoboda was awarded the contract for the work, said Kara Lamb, spokeswoman for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Eastern Colorado office.  The penstocks are large pipes that carry water from Pinewood Reservoir to the power plant behind Carter Lake, as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson water project, which provides water and power in northeastern Colorado.  Lamb said the protective coating on the penstocks is more than 50 years old and in need of replacement.  The contractor will remove the old paint from the exterior and interior of the penstock pipes, repaint them and install new ultrasonic flow meters to measure water flow and improve power plant efficiency.”  [Loveland Reporter-Herald, 4/20/10]

  

Colorado residents kicked off the state’s Recvoery Act-funded Appliance Rebate Program by making over 9,000 rebate reservations on its first day.  “The state's $18 million rebate program for energy-efficient appliances and home improvements started Monday with a deluge of applications that choked phone lines and the program's website.  More than 9,000 rebate reservations had been issued by the Recharge Colorado program by 5 p.m. and all the rebates for tankless water heaters were gone, according to the Governor's Energy Office… The program is part of $300 million in economic-stimulus funding for states through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The rebates cover qualified appliances, water heaters, insulation, solar panels and even small residential wind turbines… There were more than 30,000 visitors to the site Monday, according to the energy office… The rebates are divided up among the different categories of appliances.  There is $4.5 million for 23,000 appliance rebates, including:  6,000 refrigerators, 4,000 dishwashers, 4,000 clothes washers, and 3,750 high-performance water heaters.”  [Denver Post, 4/20/10]

  

The Colorado Department of Education announced the availability of 200 teacher certification scholarships, funded by the Recovery Act.  “Teachers looking to earn certification from a national education association could qualify for up to $2,000 in scholarships from state stimulus funds.  According to the Colorado Department of Education, 200 scholarships are available to teachers pursuing certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.  The scholarships cover $2,000 in costs for the national board certification process.  The latest round of state scholarships will be offered through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.  Applicants have fill out federal and state applications, and have to pay about $565 in candidate fees.  The NBPTS offers certification in 25 different instructional areas, including English, math, music, physical education and school counseling.  According to the CDE, several state school districts offer higher salaries for teachers who have received NBPTS certification.”  [Aurora Sentinel, 4/19/10]

  

The Colorado Department of Transportation commenced work on a Recovery Act-funded construction project to resurface 3.3 miles of US 160.  “The Colorado Department of Transportation has begun another resurfacing project in the San Luis Valley that will improve US 160 east of Del Norte.  This project is made possible with $ 7.5 million in funding from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA), as well an additional $482,000 in CDOT resurfacing funds… CDOT contractor, APC Southern Construction Company of Penrose, began lowering manholes and water/sewer connections last week, and paving began Monday, April 12.  The project will resurface the highway east of town between MP 201 and 215. (A previous ARRA-funded project a project resurfaced a 3.3-mile stretch of US 160 west of Del Norte, from mile post 197.7 to MP 201.) Additional work consists of shoulder milling/paving and curb and sidewalk through the town of Del Norte, which will include ADA ramps (Americans with Disabilities Act).  ‘I’m glad that Recovery Act funding has helped provide needed resurfacing on this stretch of Highway 160 and sidewalk improvements and ADA upgrades in Del Norte,’ Congressman John Salazar (CO-03) said.  ‘I will continue to support projects like these; projects that improve our country’s infrastructure while putting Americans to work’.”  [Denver Times, 4/14/10]

 

Recovery Act will help fund the construction of a new highway interchange that will improve access to the Anschutz Medical Campus.  “The road project that will sweep more visitors and employees into the Anschutz Medical Campus is an example of local and congressional cooperation, U.S. Rep Ed Perlmutter, D-Golden, said Tuesday.  Perlmutter spoke at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Interstate 225 and East Colfax Avenue construction project outside of the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora.  He stressed the importance of community cooperation on the project that will divert I-225 traffic from Colfax directly to Fitzsimons Parkway and into the medical campus… The entire construction project will cost $43 million, and the city has secured about $14 million — largely from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus funds — to build the first two phases of the new highway interchange… At build-out, the interchange is expected to provide improved access for more than 40,000 employees, patients, students and visitors commuting to the campus daily… Bruce Schroffel, president of the University of Colorado Hospital, said a ‘health care city’ has been created in Aurora, and the interchange project will make it easier for people to get to it.”  [Aurora Sentinel, 4/8/10]

  

$15,000 from the Recovery Act will fund the extension of passenger bus service to connect the cities of Montrose and Delta.  “It will start out small, but for the first time in recent memory a public bus will provide daily service between Montrose and Delta, as well as cross-town routes within Montrose… The routes will use three brand new ‘low-floor’ 18-passenger buses, valued at more than $200,000, that were purchased with federal stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  Operating funds for the new service came from a federal rural transit program with a 50/50 match, Crowell said… There’s been a longtime need for a commuter service to connect Montrose, Delta and Olathe, Crowell said, and routes are still being worked out… Region 10 recently received a $15,000 grant from the Colorado Department of Transportation to help facilitate the effort, Gray said, plus a $6,500 grant for the development of a Regional Transit Coordinating Council.”  [The Telluride Watch, 4/7/10]

  

Governor’s Office will use Recovery Act funds to launch Colorado’s Appliance Rebate Program  for consumers of energy efficient appliances.  “The Governor's Energy Office is set to launch an $18 million rebate program for energy-efficient purchases such as appliances, insulation and solar-power systems.  The program is part of $300 million in economic-stimulus funding for states through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The program will open April 19, when a state call center and a Recharge Colorado website go into operation.  Rebates, which can be reserved for 10 to 30 days through the website or call center, will be issued on a first- come, first-served basis… The Colorado website will keep track of available state rebates and other local or utility rebates that can also be used.  It will also have information on products, tax breaks, contractors and suppliers… Among the rebates for energy-efficient appliances being offered are $50 to $100 for refrigerators; $50 for a dishwasher; and $75 for a clothes washer.  Those rebates can be combined with other rebates.  ‘That's what the website will help with,’ Plant said.”  [Denver Post, 4/7/10]

  

Local company Rogue Resources won Recovery Act grant to mitigate beetle infestation.  “U.S. Sen. Mark Udall hiked up the Spring Creek trail Friday afternoon to get a firsthand look at beetle-kill mitigation near a populated area.  The Colorado Democrat said he was interested in the Spring Creek project as a chance to see $1 million in federal stimulus money distributed through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act put into action… Steamboat Springs was awarded a $1 million grant to mitigate beetle-kill wood near the Spring Creek trail in November.  Local company Rogue Resources is handling the removal of trees on about 305 acres... Udall emphasized a need to tap into private industry to find ways to use beetle-kill biomass, as well as the ability of projects such as the Spring Creek effort to provide work.  Referring to the mountain pine beetle epidemic as a “slow-moving natural disaster,” Udall said the next step is to find ways to turn beetle-kill wood into commercial products, including alternative energy products.  He also emphasized a need to reduce the amount of fuel for fire if one were to break out.”  [Steamboat Pilot, 4/3/10]

  

Recovery Act will fund efforts to reduce joblessness and promote economic recovery in areas of the state with high unemployment rates.  “It can be hard to catch a break in Colorado’s far western reaches, where jobless rates have crept to nearly 20 percent in one county and the bread-and-butter industries of the past, such as energy development, have slowed.  But some of the state’s more downtrodden economies are getting a boost from the stimulus act and the Telluride Foundation.  In the west ends of San Miguel, Dolores and Montezuma counties, 27 community groups were awarded $306,000 yesterday in hopes of culturing economies and creating jobs in some of the areas of the state with towering unemployment rates… The Paradox Strengthening Communities Fund grant review committee allocated the money, which will be used to build economic opportunity in a region perhaps short on good luck.  The funds will go to faith-based groups and non-profits… The program is a direct result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. … The purpose of the fund is to improve the ability of groups to promote the economic recovery of their communities.” [Telluride Daily Planet, 3/31/10]

  

Colorado Bureau of Land Management will employ area youths to construct a 22-mile trail during the summer months with Recovery Act funds.  “Local youth and outdoors types will benefit from a 22-mile trail being built near Delta on public land, thanks to stimulus dollars.  For the first time in Colorado on Bureau of Land Management land, money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 is being used for trail building.  More than 50 youths, ages 16 to 24, will have paid work that is expected to last through the fall, according to Rusty Lloyd, director of the Western Colorado Conservation Corps… The project, which is south of Delta and runs parallel to the Gunnison Gorge, received $110,000 in funding, Lloyd said.  It is in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, and the multiuse trail was designed by a Colorado group, Singletrack Trails.  The conservation corps’ state agency, the Colorado Youth Corps Association, is a partner in the effort.  Youth workers receive an hourly wage plus a scholarship through AmeriCorps of $1,000 to $2,300 to use at a college or university of their choice. … The trail is being constructed for a wide range of uses, including mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding.  ‘This is really in the spirit of using local young people to employ to get them better job skills and for money for higher education,’ Lloyd said.” [The Daily Sentinel, 3/29/10]

  

Recovery Act will fund the expansion and improvement of U.S. Highway 160 that will increase visibility at a dangerous intersection.  “A yearlong $9 million highway project partially funded by the president's stimulus package is now under way on Florida Mesa, and drivers who use the road should get ready for possible 10-minute waits. … Acceleration and deceleration lanes also will be added to the intersection, and wildlife fencing and drain improvements will go up along the stretch of highway…  The changes will give the intersection a ‘T’ shape, instead of the current, arrow-shaped alignment.  And the work will greatly improve sight distance at the intersection, said Shanks.  The project was first identified as a priority by CDOT in 2005.  The $4 million going to the county roads 222/223 project is just a small portion of the $6.7 billion headed to Colorado from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which was signed by President Barack Obama last year in February in Denver… Examples of other local stimulus projects include the Durango-La Plata County Airport apron reconstruction, and $250,000 for sidewalks and wheelchair curb-cuts on the business route through Bayfield.”  [Durango Herald, 3/25/10]

 

A $296,977 Recovery Act award will go to the San Juan Bioenergy Plant for its efforts in the production of renewable energy and power.  “U.S. Congressman John Salazar announced on March 15 that $296,977 in stimulus funding had been allocated to the San Juan Bioenergy Plant in Dove Creek to cover the cost of biomass collection, conditioning, gasification and combustion to produce renewable heat and power.  San Juan Bioenergy processes locally grown sunflower, safflower and canola for food-grade oils as well as animal feeds.  Nothing is wasted in the processing… providing 100 percent of the process heat and 50 percent of the power needed for the facility.  Waste heat from the process is also used in both the facility’s biodiesel production process and the greenhouse… By forming a relationship with farmers in Dolores County, which currently has the state’s highest unemployment rate at just over 18 percent, San Juan Bioenergy’s operation promotes agriculture and agriculture jobs as well as provides renewable fuels for a sustainable operation…Funding for the improvements come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus bill.” [The Telluride Watch, 3/23/10]

 

Wheat Ridge 2020 will use $1.5 million in Recovery Act funds to purchase, refurbish, and resell foreclosed homes.  “Wheat Ridge 2020 is getting $1.5 million in federal stimulus funds to buy, refurbish and resell foreclosed homes, the group said Monday.  Wheat Ridge 2020 is a nonprofit organization that facilitates community and economic development in the city Wheat Ridge.  The $1.5 million comes from Community Development Block/Neighborhood Stabilization Program grant funds made available through the Community Development Program of Jefferson County.  ‘With over $6 million in Neighborhood Stabilization Program funds available to invest in Jefferson County, we are enthusiastic about aiding in economic development and job stimulus as well as stabilizing neighborhoods,’ Kat Douglas, director of community development for Jefferson County, said in a statement.” [Denver Business Journal, 3/22/10]

 

San Juan Bioenergy received a $300,000 Recovery Act  grant that will allow the company to collect and gasify biomass to produce heat and power.  “San Juan Bioenergy in Dove Creek has been granted almost $300,000 in stimulus money  to collect and gasify biomass to produce heat and power, U.S. Rep. John Salazar, D-Manassa, announced Tuesday.  ‘The funding will help grow the development of renewable energy and protect jobs at a time when jobs need protecting,’ Salazar said in a statement.  ‘I'm glad to support this effort, and I will continue to support efforts that help America develop renewable-energy solutions and grow the economy of Colorado.’  Nathan Morris, chief technology officer at San Juan Bioenergy, said in a statement: ‘We're the ideal company for whom this money is supposed to help.  We began operations at the worst spot in this recession.  This money is going to help us maintain jobs and create renewable-energy opportunities in a county that needs employment.’  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant was for $296,977.  San Juan Bioenergy started as a cooperative to produce biodiesel fuel… Sunflowers are processed for oil while plant heads, stems, leaves and hulls are turned into gas to fire a boiler for building heat or to run a generator to produce electricity.” [Durango Herald News, 3/17/10]

 

Repairs are underway on Highway 340 thanks to Recovery Act funding allocated to the Colorado Department of Transportation.  “A federal stimulus project is bringing jobs and road upgrades to Fruita.  The Colorado Department of Transportation and contractor Heyl Construction have started working on the Highway 340 Intersection Improvement.  The $1.36 million project is being paid for by money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  A New Castle company called Heyl was the winning contractor.  North of I-70, the project will include a new traffic signal at Highway 340 and Cherry/Aspen streets.  There will also be some road resurfacing, drainage improvements and upgrades to pedestrian crossings.  On the south side of I-70, you will notice the installation of new curbs and gutters, roadway resurfacing and shoulder work on the south of the roundabouts.” [KJTC News, 3/11/10]

 

Broomfield company, Level 3 Communications, received a Recovery Act grant to expand broadband internet access in rural areas across the nation.  “Broomfield-based Level 3 Communications has received $13.7 million in federal broadband grants from the National Telecommunications and Information Association under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Level 3 will commit an additional $4.2 million in matching funds for the expansion of rural broadband in Georgia, Kansas, California, Texas, Florida and Tennessee.  The company will use the funds to build access points along its nationwide fiber-optic communications network, or ‘middle mile’ connections that Internet service providers can use as part of their build-out to rural communities.  ‘High-speed Internet and telecommunications services have become a vital part of building businesses and communities,’ said Sureel Choksi, Level 3's chief marketing officer.  ‘Level 3 is excited to be part of the nationwide effort to improve broadband access for all Americans.’”  [Denver Post, 3/3/10]

 

Speaker Pelosi touts the Recovery Act benefits; in the last 3 months of 2009 alone, Colorado has created over 9,300 jobs.  “Efforts to improve the U.S. 36 corridor with a recent $10 million dollar stimulus grant will be highlighted today with a visit from Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi.  The goal of the visit is to highlight jobs created by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  According to the government's web site tracking stimulus data, Colorado added over 9,300 jobs between October and December of last year.  Chuck Sisk is the mayor of Longmont and a member of the U.S. 36 Mayors and Commissioners Coalition, which is spearheading the improvement.  ‘Our project is not only a job creation but it involves a bike lane,’ he says.  ‘So it's really a multi-modal project.’  The bike lane would run for 18 miles along U.S. 36.  Sisk says commuters can expect that improvement along with a managed toll lane to help improve gridlock along the highway.” [KUNC, 3/1/10]

 

$17.3 million Recovery Act contract will fund the construction of a wind and solar energy system to supply power to the Denver Federal Center.  “Two Denver-area companies in a joint venture have landed a stimulus-funded $17.3 million design-build contract to install a solar power system capable of generating 3.2 megawatts of power at the Denver Federal Center… The joint venture is called Centerre/E Light Wind and Solar Inc. Construction on the project, which includes 14,612 panels mounted on three buildings at the center southwest of the West Sixth Avenue and Kipling Street intersection in Lakewood, will begin in April.  The project, overseen by the federal General Services Administration, will be paid for using money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  The contract was awarded in December.  ‘The ARRA is driving the construction industry toward green projects and technologies and we are proud to be a part of this new future,’ said Perry Herrmann, president and CEO of E Light Wind and Solar, in a statement.” [Denver Business Journal, 2/25/10]

 

Costilla County Senior Citizens Club will receive Recovery Act funding through the USDA’s Rural Development Community Facilities Program.  “Tuesday, U.S. Congressman John Salazar announced that $72,910 in federal funding has been allocated to the Costilla County Senior Citizens Club.  The funding comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and will be distributed through the U.S.  Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Community Facilities Program.  According to Costilla County Senior Citizens Club officials the funding will go to purchase equipment and furniture for the senior citizens facility.” [Valley Courier, 2/23/10]

 

Colorado State University received Recovery Act funding to research and improve tiny magnets to improve electronic communication.  “Three physics professors at Colorado State University have received a $962,000 U.S. Department of Commerce grant to improve tiny magnets in information-storage devices such as computers and generally improve electronic communication.  The grant is one of only 27 grants awarded across the nation – and the only one in Colorado – by the National Institute for Standards and Technology. The NIST Measurement Science and Engineering Research Grants Program is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The grants were selected from a pool of 1,300 higher education, commercial and nonprofit applicants.  ‘This grant ensures that the university – and the College of Natural Sciences – can continue to do critical research, particularly during these difficult budget times,’ said Dieter Hochheimer, physics department chair at Colorado State.  ‘Part of our land-grant mission is to ensure that we continue to serve the residents of Colorado through these important partnerships with local, state and federal organizations.’” [Colorado State University, 2/4/10]

 

Recovery Act funding will go to renovations of historic Onahu Lodge in Rocky Mountain National Park.  “Rocky Mountain National Park is planning to use federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money to replace part of the water system for the historic Onahu Lodge in the Kawuneeche Valley, and park staff is asking for public comment.  The new water system is needed for the park to comply with state health regulations for potable water and the national fire safety code.  Built in 1945, Onahu Lodge was deemed unsafe for occupants several years ago because of mold and unsafe plumbing issues after years of use as employee housing, said park spokeswoman Kyle Patterson.  Improvements were made in 2009 to make the first floor accessible, but before the lodge can be used for ho using again, the water system must be replaced.  The project calls for a new water tank to be built higher up Green Mountain than the tank for the current system in order to achieve enough water pressure to meet regulations.” [Loveland Connection, 2/1/10]

 

Recovery Act created or saved over 9,400 Colorado jobs in the final quarter of 2009.  “More than 9,406 jobs were funded in Colorado by stimulus dollars during the last three months of 2009, according to the latest wave of federal data released Saturday evening, but details of the impact remain murky.  Grabbing the largest share of the $3.4 billion in grants, loans or contract dollars flowing into the state were higher education, prison and transportation sectors, according to the Recovery.gov website.” [Denver Post, 1/31/10]

 

Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery will update facilities to comply with future EPA regulations using funds from the Recovery Act.  “Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced last week the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded a $1.5 million contract for raceways projects at the Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery.  The funding is provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).  Boise, Idaho-based McMillen, LLC received the stimulus funds for several projects to include building new fish raceways and converting old ponds into effluent ponds… Hotchkiss has 32 raceways and six earthen ponds used for raising fish.  New raceways will replace the ponds.  The six shallow ponds lack permanent lining, which results in water-loss and exposes fish to predators and potential disease.  Creating deeper, lined raceways to replace the ponds will mitigate those issues.  Workers will convert the ponds into effluent treatment. These effluent ponds will filter nitrates and phosphates — created by fish waste — to keep them from inundating the river where the hatchery releases water.” [Delta County Independent, 1/28/10]

 

A community wind project in Northeastern Colorado was awarded Recovery Act money to build a wind farm.  “A ‘community wind’ project in northeastern Colorado, called the Northeast Colorado (NECO) Wind project, has landed $2.5 million in stimulus money, Colorado two U.S. senators, Democrats Mark Udall and Michael Bennet, said Thursday. The NECO wind farm was one of five chosen by the U.S. Department of Energy to get stimulus money, which will be leveraged with local government and private industry funding, the senators said. NECO’s first phase is a 30-megawatt wind farm in Phillips County. NECO’s ultimate goal is to build a 650-megawatt wind farm in Sedgwick, Phillips and Logan counties. Community wind farms are owned by local landowners willing to place turbines on their land and other participants in the project.” [Denver Business Journal, 1/21/10]

 

Ophir will use Recovery Act money to improve its water system.  “The Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority has approved the Town of Ophir’s request for a $500,000 loan at a zero percent interest rate via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The money will be used to improve Ophir’s water system.  In addition to federal stimulus money, the town has also been awarded approximately $390,000 in grant funds for the water project from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. Ophir applied for federal stimulus funds in April, working with Telluride Energy, the consulting and project development firm, to complete the application.  At its Dec. 15 General Assembly meeting, the Town of Ophir approved a construction contract with Naturita’s Reams Construction.” [Telluride Watch, 1/21/10]

 

Federal Recovery Act funds to go to ‘long awaited’ improvements for historic Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad.  “After hearing remarks that called the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad ‘the engine’ that drives the economy of small San Luis Valley towns, the Colorado House Capital Development Committee on Tuesday devoted $1 million in federal stimulus funds to rail improvements on the historic line.  New Mexico will match that sum to fund long-awaited improvements to the track.  Money from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act account for Colorado’s share of the funding… Vigil touted the historic railway as the source of about 50 jobs split evenly between the San Luis Valley and northern New Mexico. ‘I’ve heard some criticisms that the money to the Cumbres and Toltec was wasted,’ Vigil said following the Capital Development Committee’s unanimous vote. ‘But without the funds that Colorado and New Mexico put into it, the towns of Antonito and Chama, (N.M.) could become ghost towns. The railroad is an important revenue stream to those communities’… ‘I’m especially pleased that this will benefit Conejos County, one of the poorest in the state,’ McFadyen said.  She said the Cumbres and Toltec track has needed improvement for years, but funding it took a back seat to other projects under the auspices of higher education.” [Pueblo Chieftain, 1/20/10]

 

Loveland City Council awards Recovery Act funds to projects promoting energy conservation including converting the city library to LEED certification.  “The Loveland Public Library and local nonprofit groups soon could benefit from $606,400 in stimulus money awarded to the city for energy conservation.  The Loveland City Council on Tuesday approved awarding the funds during a regular meeting.  The largest portion of the funds, $405,400, would pay for the library’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Certification.  The cost is expected to be recovered over the life of the structure, city documents said.  The average cost of moving a building to a LEED certification standard is between 3 percent to 5 percent of total project cost.  So, city leaders used 4.2 percent of the $9.4 million library expansion project cost to estimate the expense of the project.  The library will also be the city’s first LEED-certified project.  Another piece of the grant, $155,000, could benefit Loveland nonprofits to perform energy efficiency audits or upgrades.  The remaining $45,000, would provide energy-efficiency audits for city facilities, and develop a plan for potential upgrades to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” [Loveland Connection, 1/20/10]

 

Colorado Electric Motor Company expects Recovery Act grant to “improve product margins, reduce financial risk, and create hundreds of jobs.  “Colorado electric-motor technology company UQM Technologies Inc. said Wednesday it has received the $45.1 million cost-shared grant under the federal stimulus program that the U.S. Department of Energy awarded it last summer to support electric-car development.  Frederick-based UQM (NYSE Amex: UQM) develops and manufactures power-dense, high-efficiency electric motors, generators and power electronic controllers for the automotive, aerospace, military and industrial markets.  The stimulus award to UQM, first announced last August, is a major development for a company that reported revenue of $8.7 million in fiscal-year 2009.  The stimulus grant requires a 50 percent match by UQM within three years.  ‘The funding provided under this award is expected to substantially lower our cost of capital, reduce financial risk, improve product margins and lead to the creation of hundreds of new jobs,’ Donald French, UQM's treasurer and CFO, said in a statement.  The award ‘requires the company to provide detailed reports to the DOE on how funds are deployed and the number of jobs saved or created due to receipt of the DOE funding,’ UQM said.” [Denver Business Journal, 1/20/10]

 

HUD awards Recovery Act funds to Denver’s Office Of Economic Development to help with home foreclosure recovery.  “The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded $29.3 million in stimulus dollars to the Denver area to help with home foreclosure recovery, HUD said Thursday.  Most of the funds — $18.99 million — will go to the City and County of Denver’s Office of Economic Development, and the remaining $10.26 million will be used by Chicanos Por La Causa Inc.  ‘The city’s foreclosure recovery efforts will see a significant boost thanks to this increase in funding,’ Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper said in a statement.  The city plans to use the funds, which come from HUD’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), to build on its own NSP efforts launched in 2009. Chicanos Por La Causa administers program activities in eight states, including Colorado.  This latest round of NSP funding, provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, is an addition to the $9.6 million in NSP funds awarded to the city last year.  The NSP was created by the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, and strives to help cities buy, redevelop and resell foreclosed properties that might otherwise succumb to abandonment and blight.” [Denver Business Journal, 1/14/2010]

 

Mi Casa Resource Center received a $3.6 million Recovery Act grant from the Department of Labor for green job training.  “Colorado’s Mi Casa Resource Center has received a $3.6 million, green job-training grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.  The funding comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009’s ‘Pathways Out of Poverty’ program… With the new two-year grant, the agency and its partners plans to offer job training — from life skills to technical apprenticeship programs — to some 500 unemployed people in low-income Denver areas.  Those neighborhoods include Five Points, Cole, Whittier, Skyland and Clayton.  Mi Casa’s partners in the green-education project are Charity House, iCAST, the Denver Institute of Urban Studies, American Pathways University and the Denver Office of Economic Development… Courses provided by the grant funds include energy-efficient construction and retrofitting, renewable electric power, deconstruction and materials use, and energy-efficiency assessment for commercial as well as residential properties.” [Denver Business Journal, 1/13/10]

 

Eighteen agencies received Recovery Act money to promote energy efficiency programs.  “Eighteen Colorado agencies have received $2.2 million in federal stimulus funds to promote energy efficiency programs around the state, mostly in rural counties, the office of Gov. Bill Ritter announced Monday.  The grant funds have been distributed by the Governor’s Energy Office to ‘community energy coordinators’ around the state to promote local efforts to improve energy efficiency.  The coordinators include local nonprofits, utilities, councils of governments, counties and colleges… The grants, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, range from $50,000 to $265,000 and are intended to pay staffing costs for 24 to 30 months.  The grants are part of a $9.5 million stimulus allocation to the Governor’s Energy Office to promote community-based energy efficiency efforts.  The funds are part of the stimulus-related Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program.” [Denver Business Journal, 1/11/10]

 

Boulder will use Recovery Act money to replace an old hydroelectric turbine; the new equipment will produce 30 percent more electricity than the existing turbine.  “A 73-year-old hydroelectric turbine in Boulder Canyon will be replaced within the next two years, after the Boulder City Council on Tuesday agreed to accept $1.18 million in federal economic stimulus money for the equipment… The new equipment will produce 30 percent more electricity than the existing turbine and offset the need to burn 278,000 tons of coal over the expected 50-year life of the turbine, according to city estimates. That translates into a reduction of 281,000 tons of carbon-dioxide emissions.” [Daily Camera, 1/5/10]

 

Weld County used Recovery Act funds to make fatal intersection safer by installing traffic lights in December.  “An intersection that was the site of three deaths in 2009 may soon be tamed, thanks to the arrival of federal stimulus dollars.  Crews in December were nearly finished putting up traffic lights and making other improvements to the intersection of U.S. 34 east and Weld County Road 49, just east of Kersey…   The new lights will be a welcome addition for many in Kersey, a rural Weld County town of about 1,500 people, said Town Manager Tracey McCoy…  ‘There's been numerous accidents over there over the years, and I'm happy we now have some lights,’ said McCoy, a former police chief…  The intersection attracts a lot of trucks going at high speed whose drivers are trying to get to Interstate 76 and Denver.  Other motorists, meanwhile, are often impatient and try to merge onto U.S. 34 before it's safe… ‘There was little money in the state budget for the needed improvements… ‘Two other intersections in northern Colorado are also being funded with stimulus dollars.” [Denver Post, 1/4/10]

 

Recovery Act funds help up to 8,000 Coloradan families to weatherize their homes.  “Cyndy and Stan Louy say they'll know the weatherizing of their Broomfield home has worked if the corners of their bedroom are no longer chilly and the basement loses its frostiness.  They should know soon.  On Tuesday, a crew from Boulder County's Longs Peak Energy Conservation program were blowing insulation into the attic of the four-bedroom ranch and getting ready to install a new heater in the basement... The Louy house is one of up to 8,000 across Colorado slated to be weatherized under state and local programs dramatically beefed up with federal economic stimulus money.  In the first three months of the program — which began in July — Colorado was third in the nation in weatherizing homes, behind Ohio and Missouri.” [Denver Post, 12/31/09]

 

Weatherization Recovery Act funds have provided an employment boost, adding 150 jobs in Colorado. “Paired with annual DOE weatherization funds, Colorado will have $100 million over three years, according to the GEO. Colorado's expanded program has required a ramp-up period as new employees were hired, contractors engaged and equipment purchased.  Longs Peak Energy, for example, boosted its staff to 46 from 30, added six contractors and purchased new trucks, according to Amy Hollander, the program's director.  Last year the program weatherized 470 homes. This year the target is 900… It has also been an employment boost, adding 150 jobs in the state, bringing the total weatherization workforce to 400, and providing work for contractors, according to the GEO.  As of Dec. 18, 2,190 homes have been weatherized around the state, according to the DOE.” [The Denver Post, 12/31/09]

 

 Recovery Act funds to small businesses are spurring job creation and spending.  “Workers are wrapping up their conversion of a former Kentucky Fried Chicken building on West Elizabeth Street as the owners of The Farmer's Table restaurant prepare to open in their new location… The restaurant's loan is one of almost 80 loans made this year by the SBA in Larimer County under the auspices of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  And it seems like the loan is accomplishing exactly what President Barack Obama and Congress intended:  spurring job creation and spending.” [Coloradan, 12/28/09]

 

Seven wildlife refuge projects will be completed thanks to Recovery Act funds; the project leader said many of the repairs are long overdue.  “Seven valley wildlife refuge projects will be completed thanks to over $2 million in stimulus funds from the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  Mike Blenden, project leader, said many of the repairs are long overdue.  Three of the projects are at the Alamosa wildlife refuge.  ‘We are replacing the ditch diversion dam on the Rio Grande at the Alamosa Wildlife Refuge,’ Blenden said.  ‘That dam washed out in 2001 and this is first time we have had the funding to take care of that.’  The contract for the new ditch dam was awarded to two firms, Stantec, located in Dolores, and North State Environmental Inc., located in Winston-Salem, NC. A team approach will be used by the two firms to complete the project.  ‘This is a very important project because in Colorado if you don’t use your water rights you can lose them,’ explained fish and wildlife spokesman Michael Mascari… The other two projects at the Alamosa refuge involve demolishing some old buildings at the refuge office and retrofitting some photovoltaic panels (solar panels) on the roof of the office.” [Valley Courier, 12/18/09]

 

The City of Ouray was awarded a stimulus-funded grant to install a 20 kilowatt micro-hydro generating unit; the system is expected to save the city approximately $12,000 in annual electricity expenditures.  “The City of Ouray has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the Colorado Governors Energy Office to install a 20 kilowatt micro-hydro generating unit to be located at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool.  ‘This is great news for Ouray,’ said Ouray Mayor Bob Risch… Telluride Energy will be managing the project, working in collaboration with McMillon Engineering, Hydrowest, and High Tech Electrical Services.  The project will take advantage of an existing, currently underutilized pipeline adjacent to the pool site. The electrical output from the system will be net-metered to offset the electricity use of the pool complex, saving the city approximately $12,000 in annual electricity expenditures.  The powerhouse for the project will be constructed by a shop class from Ouray High School.  Once completed, the project will provide an added tourist attraction to visitors to Ouray Hot Springs.  Over the 30 year life of the project, the city will save approximately $370,000 – not accounting for expected electricity price increases.  The project will also provide an opportunity for local students to participate in development of a clean energy project, and will avoid approximately 224,000 pounds of annual carbon dioxide emissions.  Gov. Bill Ritter announced the grant award for Ouray as one of 14 New Energy Economic Development (NEED) grants to recipients across Colorado for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects that will help create and retain jobs, strengthen local economies, and save money and energy.” [The Watch Newspapers, 12/17/09]

 

Local telecom company along the Colorado-Nebraska state line will use stimulus to connect about 550 locations in the rural farm to high speed internet, provide access to distance learning and telemedicine services.  “The first handful of awards from the federal government’s $7.2 billion broadband stimulus program includes funding for a Colorado project.  Vice President Joe Biden on Thursday revealed the first 18 winning grants, a total of $182 million projects meant to improve high-speed Internet access in areas of United States that lack it.  In Colorado, a $1.5 million project proposed by the Peetz Cooperative Telephone Co. received a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service.  The local telecom for the Peetz area, along the Colorado-Nebraska state line north of Sterling, Colo., said in its application it would use the money to connect about 550 locations in the rural farm to high speed Internet, which would spur economic activity and access to distance learning and telemedicine services.” [Denver Business Journal, 12/17/09]

 

Dover Post highlights the opportunity that the Recovery Act provides for small businesses.  “The economic stimulus package has provided several funding opportunities for small businesses.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has expanded the availability of federally subsidized microloans of up to $35,000.  These loans are available in Delaware through the First State Community Loan Fund… The Small Business Administration also guarantees small business loans that entrepreneurs can seek through private banks… The SBA also offers a surety bond guarantee program, which helps small businesses to purchase bonds necessary to perform construction projects and other work.  Businesses interested in purchasing real estate or other fixed assets can take advantage of Certified Development Company loans, which are subsidized by the SBA.” [Dover Post, 12/14/09]

 

Researchers at the University of Colorado Denver will receive about $52 million in one-time Recovery Act money, creating up to 520 new jobs.  “Researchers at the University of Colorado Denver will receive about $52 million in one-time federal stimulus money, creating up to 520 new jobs and the potential to uncover scientific breakthroughs that create new spin-off companies.  Dr. Richard Traystman, vice chancellor for research at the University of Colorado Denver (UCD) at the Anschutz Medical Campus, said the institution was awarded 120 stimulus-related grants of 565 proposals submitted in 2009.    In general, most of the university’s grants came from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which offered an additional $10 billion in stimulus-related grants on top of its $30 billion budget.    In total, UCD will receive $365 million in federal funds this year.” [Denver Business Journal, 12/11/09]

 

 Recovery Act funding will go to small businesses, school districts, nonprofits and municipalities for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.  “Gov. Bill Ritter announced today the award of 14 New Energy Economic Development (NEED) grants to recipients across Colorado for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects that will help create and retain jobs, strengthen local economies, and save money and energy.  The grants, which total about $1.5 million and are funded by the Recovery Act, will go to small businesses, school districts, nonprofits and municipalities.  Projects include converting a gas boiler system to a woody biomass heating system at Western State College, using solar power to offset irrigation costs for an Alamosa farm, and retrofitting an HVAC system with efficiencies at Buena Vista schools.  ‘These grants reflect the way Coloradans in every corner of Colorado are helping to advance the New Energy Economy,’ Gov. Ritter said.  ‘They reflect the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit that is making Colorado a national leader in building a clean-energy future and a leader in the nation's economic recovery.  These projects will help create jobs, reduce energy usage and save money.’… The 14 grant projects will leverage more than $3.3 million in public-private local matching funds for a combined $5.8 million investment in Colorado communities.” [Summit Daily News, 12/11/09]

 

Counties throughout Colorado will use Recovery Act funds for transportation projects, school lunches, and affordable housing units; one project to help protect the North Lake Watershed will create or save 13 jobs.  “Federal stimulus funds have arrived in several parts of the Spanish Peaks area.  According to the state's Web site, Colorado.gov, millions of dollars in President Barack Obama’s stimulus package have been pumped into Las Animas and Huerfano counties for a variety of programs.  The South Central Council of Governments County Region - which includes Huerfano and Las Animas counties - will receive an $84,441 Community Services Block Grant Allocation.  Trinidad has received more than $7 million in stimulus funds for a portion of the Interstate 25 project through town.  The money will be used for the construction of the Purgatoire River Pedestrian Trail, new streetlights, parking lot paving, curb and gutter, drainage inlets, landscaping and sidewalk… Las Animas County will receive $636,265, and Huerfano will receive $307,700… Huerfano County will receive $174,624 and Las Animas County will receive $696,078 to maintain K-12 education programs… Under school-lunch funding, Huerfano County will receive $93,409, and Las Animas County will receive $29,244.  The M.S. Forest, LLC in Las Animas County will receive $1 million to hire four new employees for the duration of the grant period and retain nine other jobs.  The goal of the project is to treat 750 acres to help protect the North Lake Watershed, Trinidad's primary source of drinking water.  Under federal programs and projects, Trinidad and Aguilar will receive the following funds for the Department of Housing and Urban Development:  Trinidad Housing Authority - $444,654.  Aguilar Housing Authority - $38,424. Walsenburg Housing Authority - $262,598.  The Trinidad Lake North Watershed Project will receive $79,000 for technical and financial assistance to private landowners (mostly family-owned farms and ranches) for implementing improved management strategies and erosion control practices on cropland, grazing land and adjacent properties located in the Trinidad Lake Watershed that result in reducing contaminant and sediment loading to Trinidad Lake Reservoir.” [Pueblo Chieftain, 12/6/09]

 

Colorado was awarded $2.1 million in Recovery Act funds to improve broadband.  “Gov. Bill Ritter announced today that the Governor's Office of Information Technology has secured nearly $2.1 million through the Recovery Act to support broadband Internet mapping and planning activities throughout Colorado.  The Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded grant funding today to six states, including Colorado.  ‘Reliable, affordable Internet service brings opportunities in education, business, health care and jobs to our state,’ Gov. Ritter said.  ‘Improving our broadband access is imperative to remaining competitive in today's global economy’…  Colorado received an award of approximately $1.6 million for broadband data collection and mapping activities over a two-year period and almost $500,000 for broadband planning activities over a five-year period.” [Colorado.gov, 11/30/09]

 

A Colorado company will use Recovery Act funds to create a database, website and call center to help consumers and businesses learn more about energy-efficiency projects they can do.  “Colorado advertising agency Vladimir Jones and its partners have landed a $5 million contract related to the federal stimulus program to help state residents learn what they can do to save energy.  The contract with the Governor's Energy Office (GRO), announced Tuesday, calls for building a database, website and call center to help consumers and businesses learn more about energy-efficiency projects they can do -- and the financial incentives offered by a myriad of utilities, governments and agencies in Colorado and at the federal level to help pay for those projects…. The goal is to create a one-stop-shop for consumers who want to save energy but aren't sure of what to do, or who to call, or what incentives might be out there, according to the GEO…. Overall, the agency is handling about $138.8 million from the federal economic stimulus program, but the bulk of that will pass through the agency to local governments and agencies to spend on energy efficiency and other projects…’ Colorado has needed something like this for a while.  There are so many programs from so many entities, you start to lose track of them all,’ said Gil Rossmiller, chief building official for the city of Parker, in the GEO's announcement of the contract award.” [Denver Business Journal, 12/2/09]

 

Colorado will use Recovery Act funds for the mapping of broadband availability in the state and planning broadband services.  “The federal government has awarded $2.1 million in stimulus grants to Colorado to fund the mapping of broadband availability in the state and planning broadband services… The federal government earmarked money through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help states understand where high-speed Internet access is lacking and try to foster wider broadband adoption.  About $1.6 million of the NTIA stimulus grant will go to broadband mapping in Colorado, while the remaining $500,000 is meant for broadband planning by the state… The grant could help Colorado tech policymakers achieve a goal they’ve pursued for more than three years.  The Colorado Legislature in 2008 passed a bill creating a broadband mapping project in the state to be overseen by the OIT and estimated to cost up to $400,000.  The effort struggled to secure funding. Some $60,000 in private money was committed to the project.  The original bill was amended in early 2009 to make it possible for OIT to seek $300,000 in state funding for the mapping.  Economic woes shrank state revenues, leaving federal stimulus money the most likely source of money for the project.” [Denver Business Journal, 11/30/09]

 

Metropolitan State College of Denver will use stimulus funds to help lower the cost of construction of a Student Success Building.  “Metro State used Recovery Zone Economic Development Bonds, a financing instrument created by ARRA, to issue $56.5 million in taxable bonds and secure an interest rate not seen since the 1960s.  The federal government will pay 45 percent of the interest, saving Metro State $15 million to $20 million in interest payments compared to traditional tax exempt bonds.  Metro will use the bond proceeds to build a four-story, 143,000-square-foot Student Success Building, which will house services and offices that are currently spread throughout the campus.  By consolidating and providing more room for academic success, support, advising, and enrollment programs the new building will improve customer service and meet the needs of the growing student body.” [The Governor Monitor, 11/27/09]

 

Recovery Act helped employ four people to get 132 solar panels installed at O'Briens Carpet One.  “One local business goes green and helps some people get back to work.  Federal Stimulus Money helped employ 4 people to get 132 solar panels installed at O'Briens Carpet One.   The panels will generate 25 thousand watts of energy.  Project Manager Sam Masias says people like himself are grateful for the work, ‘we hired another gentleman that I met he's a good carpenter he created some tools up here that helped expedite the process.’  Masias worked for the past 2 years in the Solar Industry in California he moved here to help take care of his father, and is working as a result of this project he says, "we're able to develop jobs here we've got a 2 million watt solar array they're going to build at the academy we think we can put 100 people low skilled - medium skilled people to work.” [KRDO, 11/27/09]

 

Steamboat Springs is set to use Recovery Act funding for the removal of trees that present a wildfire risk.  “The city of Steamboat Springs has received a $1 million grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the Colorado State Forest Service for removal of trees that present a wildfire risk in the Steamboat area.  The project is expected to start in early December on land owned by the city, Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp., several homeowners’ associations and private homeowners in the city and Routt County.  In a Thursday news release, the city cited lodgepole pines affected by the bark beetle epidemic as a focus of the project.  ‘The tremendous number of standing dead trees in this old-growth forest has resulted in very high to extreme forest fuels loading, as well as increased the risk of injury and property damage from hazard tree blowdown,’ the release stated.” [Steamboat Pilot, 11/20/09]

 

The Colorado State Forest Service announced that 15 organizations and businesses that will create or retain more than 200 forestry-related jobs, thanks to Recovery Act funding.  “The Colorado State Forest Service is awarding much-needed economic stimulus funds to 15 organizations and businesses that will create or retain more than 200 forestry-related jobs in Colorado between now and Sept. 30, 2011... The funds were made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The U.S. Forest Service received $1.15 billion for forest project work nationwide … Twenty Colorado counties... will receive direct benefits from stimulus funds through jobs creation and retention.  In addition, neighboring counties will experience indirect benefits, as the vitality of mills impacts raw wood suppliers and companies that purchase finished product in multiple counties and sometimes in multiple states.    ‘These Recovery Act funds will allow the retention of current personnel and create new jobs that will implement forest restoration and wildfire mitigation projects.  The funds also will help communities with efforts to develop and implement Community Wildfire Protection Plans, which ultimately will help them compete for other grant funds in the future.” [Colorado State News, 11/2/09]

 

Recovery Act funds have created or saved 4,500 jobs in Colorado—500 in highway construction and 121 in home weatherization; 6,200 homebuyers have taken advantage of the stimulus’ one-time $8,000 federal tax credit for buying their first home. “The stimulus money flowing through state agencies has saved or created almost 4,500 jobs in Colorado so far, most of them in colleges and prisons.  An analysis released Tuesday by Gov. Bill Ritter's economic recovery team also found that about 6,200 homebuyers have taken advantage of the one-time $8,000 federal tax credit for buying their first home.  It also found that more than 50,000 college students have benefited from the boost in Pell Grant funds... ‘The biggest impacts were on state jobs, but it also included grants given the state to fund areas such as youths' summer jobs, highway work and weatherization improvements... The stabilization portion also was used by the state to save another 524 Department of Corrections jobs.  About 500 jobs were created through state highway projects. Home weatherization created the equivalent of 121 full-time jobs... the report detailed how many people have used programs funded by stimulus money.  It showed that about 300,000 have received or will receive food assistance and about 174,000 have gotten increased and extended unemployment benefits.” [Denver Post, 10/28/09]

 

Recovery Act funds helped employ 1,200 youths this summer in Colorado.  “[Denver Councilman Doug] Linkhart said the city used federal stimulus money this year to help place about 1,200 people between the ages of 16 and 24 in jobs.  Overall, the city spent about $4 million, including stimulus funds, on the program this year, he said.  But Linkhart said the stimulus money was a one-time payment, forcing the city to pare the youth jobs program back next year to serving 200 youths.  He said the mayor's budget would spend about $700,000 on the program next year.  He wants to raise the spending level to $1.4 million and is still combing the 2010 budget to find ways to fund the increase.” [Denver Post, 10/26/09]

 

The GEO is dramatically expanding its weatherization services to income-qualified, larger multi-family apartment buildings under the Recovery Act; Colorado has already weatherized 900 homes with Recovery Act funding.  “The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) has selected Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC) to provide weatherization services for large, multi-family buildings in Colorado.  The project is designed to improve comfort, save energy and reduce utility bills for low-income families.  EOC's work will help lower the energy costs associated with heating and cooling large apartment buildings by conducting energy audits, upgrading insulation, sealing air leaks and taking other steps to reduce energy consumption.  EOC will focus its effort solely on larger multi-family apartment buildings where 5 units or more are centrally heated… EOC will target 700 units as part of its one-year, $2.8 million contract with the GEO.  The work will create jobs, as the EOC will add staff as well as hire contract labor to conduct much of the actual weatherization and efficiency improvements... The GEO is dramatically expanding its weatherization services to income-qualified households under the Recovery Act.  With nearly $80 million in additional funding provided over three years, Colorado plans to weatherize more than 10,000 homes, cutting utility bills for low-income families who benefit most from the savings, reducing pollution and adding jobs across the state.  In the three months since the Recovery Act funds were released, Colorado has already weatherized more than 900 homes for low-income families.” [ABC 7News Denver, 10/21/09]

 

In Colorado, Recovery Act contracts could create more than 4,000 jobs, many of them in the telecommunications and renewable energy sectors.  “The state was slated to receive about $5.5 billion from the economic recovery plan.   And much of that money focuses on creating jobs for Coloradans… ‘We have 65 jobs posted currently,’ Bill Thoennes, with the Colorado Department of Labor, said.  Myung Oak Kim, communications manager for the Governor's Economic Recovery Team, says there are many more jobs to come.  ‘We do expect thousands of jobs over the next two years,’ Kim said… Recently, the federal government announced the preliminary awarding of contracts to 163 Colorado companies.  Those contracts could result in more than 4,000 jobs in Colorado.  Many of them would be with the telecommunications company Teletech, which offers a number of temporary positions.  Eric Van Orden, of Standard Renewable Energy, says his company is looking for 15 full-time workers, with positions ranging from installation technicians to sales people and energy consultants.  ‘All those people that have been waiting for jobs... in the very near future I see them having those opportunities for jobs.’” [9News, 10/21/09]

 

Denver will use Recovery Act grant to fund loans for small businesses.  “The city of Denver's Office of Economic Development is offering $1,366,613 in loans to small businesses under the federal stimulus program.  The loans are for projects supporting business startup and expansion and are funded through a grant to the city under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's Community Development Block Grant-Recovery (CDBG-R) program.  ‘We have seen a very strong need for greater access to capital among our businesses, and we're fortunate to have these extra funds to leverage within our community to create jobs and stimulate the economy,’ OED Executive Director André Pettigrew said in a statement.  The agency is soliciting proposals for the loans …OED also is seeking proposals for a portion of $850,000 in stimulus funds available for community or neighborhood improvements in Denver.  The money is intended for such revitalization projects as block beautification, installation and upgrade of parks and playgrounds, community centers and tree planting.” [Denver Business Journal, 10/19/09]

 

Kaiser Permanente's Institute for Health Research in Colorado will use Recovery Act funding to examine genetic and environmental influences on a wide variety of health conditions.  “The two-year grant, from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will support a variety of health-research programs using Kaiser's massive electronic database of health records.  The Denver-based Institute for Health Research will receive $184,501 as its share of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds, which are being distributed in the form of 22 separate grants to Kaiser units in several states.  A $25 million portion of the NIH grant package will be used to conduct genotyping on 100,000 Kaiser Permanente members participating in the Research Program on Genes, Environment and Health.  ‘This genetic information will be linked to data on participants from ... health surveys, disease registries and Kaiser Permanente's vast electronic health record database, resulting in a resource that will allow researchers to examine genetic and environmental influences on a wide variety of health conditions,’ Kaiser's announcement said.  The project will ‘roughly double the number of individuals in the United States available to researchers for genome-wide association studies,’ Kaiser said.  Other grants in the package include $7.2 million to develop a cardiovascular surveillance system for a collaborative of 14 U.S. health plans with 11 million HMO members, and $4 million to evaluate tests related to colon cancer.” [Denver Business Journal, 10/12/09]

 

$12 million in Recovery Act allocation helps fund bridge and transportation project will bring jobs to Colorado.  “The city, the State of Colorado and developer Forest City Enterprises recently jointed [sic] forces to build a new highway interchange for I-70 that will serve the master planned of [sic] community of Stapleton, which Forest City is developing.  Denver was one of the first cities whose stimulus projects were approved... The complicated financing of the project—which will involve three bridges, 3,600 cubic yards of concrete and 890,000 pounds of reinforced steel—also shows why it seems like it’s taking a while for the federal funds to trickle down into real life local projects.  Of the $70 million overall price tag only $12 million is actually coming from the big stimulus bill.  The largest share, $30 million, is coming from city and state sources.  Another $9 million is being paid by traditional federal highway funds and $19 million is being kicked in by the developer.” [Business Week, 10/8/09]

 

Small business lending in Colorado is up 35 percent under the Recovery Act, while the average weekly loan volume in Colorado has risen.  “The Small Business Administration's Colorado district office has seen a 35 percent increase in loan activity since the federal stimulus package was signed into law in February, officials said Thursday.  The SBA has approved 654 7(a) and 504 loans worth $306 million since the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was signed on Feb. 17 in Denver.  The 7(a) Loan Guaranty Program is the SBA's general business loan guaranty program. The 504 Economic Development Loan Program provides long-term, fixed rate financing for land, building, and equipment.  Based on discussions with small business owners, 'access to capital' remains the number one obstacle to recovery today,’ Greg Lopez, SBA's Colorado district director, said in a statement.  ‘Because of the Recovery Act, SBA loan volumes have increased over the past seven months and are now approaching the lending levels seen prior to the downturn in the economy.’  Since March, average weekly loan volume in Colorado has risen from $5,378 a week to more than $7,240, officials said.” [Denver Business Journal, 10/8/09]

 

Thanks to the Recovery Act’s competitive bidding process, Colorado Transportation Commission will be able to provide  funds for nine more projects.  “The Colorado Transportation Commission has approved nine extra construction projects around the state with stimulus funds, in part using funds that have been saved from lower-than-expected bids on previous projects.  ‘Because of competitive contractor bids coming in lower than expected, we are now able to construct even more projects with the money that has been saved,’ state Transportation Commission Chair Kim Killin said in a statement.  ‘These projects mean that more people will be put to work in economically disadvantaged areas across the state improving Colorado’s transportation system.’  The Colorado Department of Transportation has received $400 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for projects, about 75 percent of which has been ‘obligated,’ or earmarked.  ” [Denver Business Journal, 10/7/09]

 

Colorado State University will use $7.3 million in Recovery Act funding to research disease and create jobs.  “CSU scientists seeking solutions for problems ranging from childhood obesity to the plague will share about $7.3 million in federal stimulus funds announced by President Barack Obama on Wednesday... For Art Campfield, a professor of food science and human nutrition at Colorado State University, the approximately $200,000 he will receive over the next two years will ensure the continued operation of Program Energy.  Campfield said the program helps elementary school children across the country learn about science while making good choices about food.  The program aims to help fight childhood obesity and Type II diabetes, while also engaging kids in science...   Campfield said his program, which has been running for nine years, has reached about 6,000 schoolchildren and their families.” [Coloradan, 10/1/09]

 

Colorado’s Energy Office announces state grants for energy conservation projects in small counties, adding to the many Recovery Act projects in the state.  “The Governor’s Energy Office, Colorado’s top agency for energy-efficiency efforts, learned Wednesday that the U.S. Department of Energy has released $34.1 million in federal economic stimulus funds to the state.  DOE Secretary Steven Chu on Wednesday said the GEO will get $9.5 million for energy efficiency and energy conservation grants to Colorado towns and counties too small to receive funds directly from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The DOE also released $24.6 million for Colorado’s ‘State Energy Program,’ money GEO plans to spend on rebates for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects as well as helping businesses, homeowners and utilities finance such projects.  ” [Denver Business Journal, 10/1/09]

 

The Fort Collins Housing Authority will use Recovery Act funds to improve energy efficiency in its 154 units.  “The Fort Collins Housing Authority has received another infusion of federal economic stimulus funding aimed at improving the energy efficiency of its units.  The agency learned last week it will receive a $463,000 grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development for energy-saving upgrades, such as new furnaces and more insulation for units rented to low-income residents.  The housing authority operates 154 units around the city.  It also manages the Wellington Housing Authority, which received a $126,000 grant from the same program… The grants will pay for Energy Star furnaces and light fixtures, [said Julie Brewen, executive director of the Fort Collins Housing Authority].  They also will pay for irrigation-system sensors.  Residents should see lower utility bills because of the improvements, she said.  ‘We did a similar rehab project and saw a 50 percent saving in energy costs,’ she said.  ‘We would hope to have similar results with this funding.” [The Coloradoan, 9/28/09]

 

In Denver, Recovery Act grants will help fund the construction and renovation of low-cost apartments and will be used to make existing public housing more energy efficient.  “The Denver Housing Authority will receive $1.335 million in federal stimulus funds for upgrades at its John R. Mulroy Apartments, the latest in a series of grants to the city for public-housing projects.  Since ARRA was signed into law in Denver in February, HUD has allocated about $4 billion in stimulus funds for public housing projects in various categories, with some grants still being awarded.  The funding has gone mainly for projects aiming to assist the elderly and disabled, improvement or replacement of blighted housing projects, “gap” financing for stalled projects, and creation of “green” housing.  On Sept. 18, the Denver Housing Authority was awarded $10 million in stimulus funds toward redevelopment of its South Lincoln Park Homes project.  And earlier this month, Denver learned it would receive another $10 million for its Westwood Homes development under the same Public Housing Capital Funds program.” [Denver Business Journal, 9/24/09]

 

313 arts jobs restored, saved, or created in Colorado, thanks to funding from the Recovery Act.  “The rules were clear for the Colorado arts groups applying for funds through the federal government's economic stimulus plan:  Each grant had to be tied to an actual job. Real positions had to be created or preserved directly with the money.  When the grants were announced last week, 47 arts groups made the cut, splitting a total of $568,040 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Their promise is to keep 313 people gainfully employed either by preserving workers laid off or threatened, or by restoring reduced positions to full-time. [The Denver Post, 9/21/09]

 

Recovery Act grant will provide ten additional units of transitional housing with bilingual services for low-income victims of domestic violence.  “Fort Collins families escaping domestic violence got a major lift Thursday when the Justice Department announced a $500,000 grant for Crossroads Safehouse.  The three-year grant will provide 10 additional units of transitional housing for victims of domestic violence.  The money comes from a $43 million pool created when Congress passed the economic stimulus bill earlier this year, and Crossroads Safehouse is the only Colorado agency so far to receive money from the program… The grant will provide transitional housing for very-low-income families who've never been eligible for such assistance in Larimer County, said Vicki Lutz, executive director of Crossroads Safehouse… ‘This grant program will support 10 subsidized apartments with bilingual holistic services to encourage complete emotional and economic recovery for families,’ she said.” [The Coloradan, 9/18/09]

 

Recovery Act saves and preserves 313 arts jobs in Colorado. “Colorado has received $568,040 in Federal recovery funds that will ensure that 313 Colorado arts workers will remain, temporarily at least, off the rolls of the unemployed. The money is intended to “help combat job loss in the arts due to declining philanthropic and other support in the current economic climate,” the release stated.  These grants have significant impact on arts organizations statewide:  Organizations in 15 counties and 17 cities received ARRA funding. More than 300 jobs, including contract positions, will be preserved or reinstated.  Many of these jobs are key leadership positions critical to the daily operation of each organization. Other positions will allow organizations to continue to provide innovative and educational programs and services that greatly benefit numerous Colorado communities.” [The Colorado Independent, 9/14/09]

 

$7.2 million in Recovery Act funding accelerates the building of airport taxiways and leads to immediate job creation for the 3-5 year construction project.  “The Colorado Springs Airport will receive a $7.2 million grant from the U.S. Transportation Department to accelerate rebuilding three key taxiways that are used with its longest runway, cutting the project’s completion time by about half, airport officials said.  The latest grant, along with $6.28 million in stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, will help continue rebuilding work on a taxiway that parallels the airport’s east runway and two other taxiways between the first one and the airport’s passenger terminal.  The airport hopes to finish rebuilding all of its taxiways within three to five years, said Mark Earle, the city’s aviation director.  ‘This is an important part of multiyear project to improve the taxiway association with our major air carrier runway… The two grants will ‘speed up the work and create jobs in the region.’” [The Gazette, 9/14/09]

 

 Millions of dollars in  Recovery Act-funded projects create jobs for veterans and have a positive impact on Colorado’s forests.  “In Colorado, millions of dollars from President Barack Obama's Recovery Act are already funding projects that will improve forest conditions.  For example, the U.S. Forest Service has partnered with the Colorado Youth Corps Association to remove dead trees that were killed by bark beetles from campgrounds, picnic areas and trails.    The Veterans Jobs Project in Dolores County is a partnership of the U.S. Forest Service, the Southwest Conservation Corps and the Veterans Green Jobs Academy that trains and employs vets to become leaders in emerging green jobs industries [The Denver Post, 9/13/09]

 

47 arts groups will receive Recovery Act funding, saving or restoring 313 jobs.  “Forty-seven Colorado arts organizations in 15 counties will share $568,040 in federal stimulus funds allocated by the National Endowment for the Arts.  The one-time grant is intended to reduce job losses in the arts caused by a drop in philanthropic support during the economic downturn.  The Colorado Council on the Arts, the city of Denver's Office of Cultural Affairs and the Western States Arts Federation are administering the state's share of the grant money under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Each is distributing funds to a different set of arts groups.  In a statement, the three administering groups said the funds will save or restore 313 salaried and contract jobs among the recipient arts organizations.  Here are the arts groups receiving funds, listed by each administering organization.  Given are the recipient, its location and the amount received.” [Denver Business Journal, 9/11/09]

 

Colorado to modernize its unemployment insurance program with Recovery Act funds.  “The U.S. Department of Labor said it is releasing $42,489,921 in stimulus funds to the state of Colorado to promote modernization of its unemployment insurance program.  The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment can use the funds to pay unemployment benefits or, if appropriated by the Legislature, to administer the state unemployment insurance program or deliver employment services,’ the federal Labor Department said in an announcement.”  Labor Secretary Solis:  “Colorado's unemployment insurance program has been updated to better meet the needs of the 21st century labor force.  Now more than ever, it is critical that workers and their families receive the benefits they need and deserve.  The new legislation enacted in Colorado is particularly helpful to unemployed workers who have entered the workforce recently and might not otherwise qualify for [unemployment] benefits.” [Denver Business Journal, 9/10/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded trail project to create jobs for Colorado youth.  “The BLM Colorado State Office awarded $60,000 in ARRA funding to the Colorado Youth Corps Association to conduct trail maintenance, construction, and restoration work for the Western Slope of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area…. In a statewide effort to ensure mountain bike trails are sustainable and that mountain bikers have places to ride, Bicycle Colorado, working with Singletrack Trails Inc., is slated to begin planning a trail-and-travel management system this winter, surveying the area and identifying links to existing trails, new trails and areas suitable for restoration.  Once Bicycle Colorado completes the trail plan in spring 2010, the Colorado Youth Corps Association will begin construction on the system.  The CYCA is a coalition of 10 conservation corps that engage youth and young adults in land, water, and energy conservation projects while promoting education, work and life skills. ‘We’re thrilled to be able to put young people to work on this important project and help create the next generation of natural resource workers,’ said CYCA Executive Director Jennifer Freeman. ‘This ARRA project is a great opportunity to provide jobs for western slope youth.” [The Watch, 9/10/09]

 

Recovery Act grant will pay for contractors to improve Colorado State Forests.  “More than $10.7 million in economic stimulus money directed to the Colorado State Forest Service will create new jobs for private companies while knocking off projects on the service's to-do list.  Funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will fund projects to address fuels mitigation, forest restoration, creating and implementing community wildfire protection plans and helping increase and retain jobs in the forest industry, said Jeff Jahnke, state forester and director of the Colorado State Forest Service, an agency of the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University… A $6.25 million grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will go toward firms that plan to address major forest issues on a competitive basis.  A second grant for $4.465 million will help fund jobs to develop and implement wildfire community protection plans.” [Fort Collins Coloradoan, 9/4/09]  

 

Recovery Act will pay for Colorado companies Namaste Solar and NexGen Energy to install solar array at water company.  “The federal stimulus bill is providing funds for a number of solar energy projects across the nationwide, including one at a spring water plant in Colorado.  This week, the Eldorado Natural Spring Water company announced that it will install a 100 kilowatt solar array on the roof of its main office.  The project will be assisted by Namaste Solar and NexGen Energy Partners, both of which are Colorado companies.  The company noted that it had been planning to install the solar array for at least two years and had initially been set for completion last fall.  It finally became possible in light of the stimulus funds, which provide a 30 percent cash grant for such projects.  ‘After waiting such a long time, we are excited that the installation of our new solar system began this week.  It will be one of the largest in the state and we'll be able to obtain approximately 50 percent of our energy needs from this system,’ said Jeremy Martin, the company's vice president of marketing.” [CoolerPlanet, 9/3/09]  

 

Denver will use Recovery Act funds to upgrade public housing.  “The Denver Housing Authority will receive $10 million for its Westwood Homes development as part of a nationwide allocation of $96 million in public-housing grants to 15 agencies under the federal stimulus program, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced Thursday.  The Public Housing Capital Funds grants will pay for public-housing upgrades to thousands of residential units in several cities.  Westwood Homes are row housing in the area of 3401 W. Kentucky Ave., according to the DHA website.  ‘The funding HUD is awarding to public housing authorities today will inject necessary capital funding into our economy, creating much-needed, quality jobs at a time when they are needed more than ever,’ HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan said in a statement.  “These investments will not only provide quality housing for low-income residents, but will also encourage economic growth and development in communities across the county.’  Overall, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has allocated several billion dollars to some 3,100 public housing agencies nationwide for a series of programs.” [Denver Business Journals, 9/3/09]  

 

The President and CEO of Namaste Solar Credits the Recovery Act for making it possible to hire six new people.  “It's a new day, a new field and lots of new words for Natalie Libansky… After a couple of months on unemployment, Libansky recently got a new job with Namaste Solar.  Monday, she was installing solar panels on the roof of Eldorado Natural Spring Water.  ‘When I got the call that I got the job, I ran around my house like a mad woman, in circles, kind of like my dog does. Just ran around totally pumped,’ she said.  Libansky is one of about six people the small Boulder-based 55 person company recently hired.  President and CEO Blake Jones credits the economic stimulus bill signed by President Obama earlier this year. ‘We're really excited about this project,’ Jones said, ‘because this is our first large commercial project we're installing in about a year.’” [9News.com, 9/1/09]  

 

The Colorado State Forest Service will distribute Recovery Act funds for projects that create forestry-related jobs.  “The Colorado State Forest Service is seeking proposals for $10.7 million in federal stimulus funds it will distribute for projects that create forestry-related jobs.  The funds authorized under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act include: $6.25 million for organizations working to create or retain jobs in forest restoration and fuels mitigation.  $4.47 million to fund jobs involved in planning community wildfire protection, with some of the money for jobs in the wood-products industry.  ‘The Colorado State Forest Service and the state of Colorado are fortunate to receive this significant [stimulus] award,’ Jeff Jahnke, state forester and director of the Colorado State Forest Service, said in a statement Monday.  ‘The jobs created and retained through Recovery Act funding will benefit Colorado’s citizens and the economy while reducing wildfire hazards, improving the health of our forests and revitalizing wood-based industries.’” [Denver Business Journal, 8/31/09]  

 

Recovery Act funds will be used to improve two rural Colorado Sewage treatment facilities.  “Two rural Colorado sewage-treatment facilities will receive a combined $2.42 million in federal stimulus funds for improvements. Here are the grants, announced Wednesday by the office of Gov. Bill Ritter: The town of Boone, in Pueblo County, will get $1,295,000 to improve its sewage-lagoon system, where inadequately treated wastewater has been seeping into a local aquifer.  Some 14 temporary jobs will be created.  The town of Red Cliff, in Eagle County, will get $1,122,608 to replace its wastewater plant, which has operated for several years under an Environmental Protection Agency cease-and-desist order for being out of compliance with federal regulations.  An estimated 26 temporary jobs will be created.” [Denver Business Journal, 8/27/09] 

 

Recovery Act money will be used to expand medical care and improve water systems in rural Colorado; will generate 46 temporary jobs.  “Three projects in rural Colorado will get a total of nearly $3 million in federal stimulus funds to expand medical care and improve water systems.  Gov. Bill Ritter announced Tuesday that the funds will be distributed through community development block grants, administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.  The western Colorado town of Red Cliff will receive $1.1 million to replace its wastewater treatment plant.  The town's existing plant is out of compliance with federal standards.  The Pueblo County community of Boone will get about $1.3 million to improve its wastewater treatment system.  Another $415,000 will go to the Bent County Medical Facility in Las Animas to expand the clinic.  State officials say the projects will generate a total of 46 temporary jobs.” [Colorado Connection, 8/26/09]  

 

Three projects in rural Colorado will receive Recovery Act funds to expand medical care and improve water systems.  “Three projects in rural Colorado will get a total of nearly $3 million in federal stimulus funds to expand medical care and improve water systems…. The western Colorado town of Red Cliff will receive $1.1 million to replace its wastewater treatment plant.  The town's existing plant is out of compliance with federal standards.  The Pueblo County community of Boone will get about $1.3 million to improve its wastewater treatment system.  Another $415,000 will go to the Bent County Medical Facility in Las Animas to expand the clinic.  State officials say the projects will generate a total of 46 temporary jobs.” [Associated Press, 8/25/09] 

 

Recovery Act will pay for contractors to extend sewer lines to 176 residents, sparing residents high service fees; project due to be complete in December 2010.  “Federal stimulus funds are headed here to help pay for the long-awaited project to extend sanitary sewer lines to 176 residents in North Cañon City.  The funds will pay off a $2 million loan through the Colorado Water and Power Development Authority, erasing the $45 monthly debt service fee over 20 years that affected residents otherwise would have paid.  George Medaris, recently-retired Fremont Sanitation District manager who now is working on the project as a consultant, said contracts are being finalized for the funding.  He said the only cost to residents will be an estimated $600 cost to abandon their old septic tanks, and a standard monthly sewer charge of $18.26 once the sewer lines are in place… Once the project is finished, he said residents must vote to formally join sanitation district or be forced to pay outside user fees… Medaris said when he took over management of the district in the early 1980s, he heard complaints then about failing septic systems and the need for sanitary sewer in North Cañon. He said he is glad to see the project finally come to fruition at a minimal cost to the residents of the area as he retires.” [Cañon City Daily Record, 8/24/09] 

 

The Colorado Department of Transportation will use Recovery Act funds to improve sites where truckers wait out road closures caused by bad weather.  “The government stimulus program is supposed to get the economy moving, but some of the money will help trucks when they're sitting still.  The Colorado Department of Transportation said Monday it's using $2 million in stimulus money to help truckers stopped by bad weather along Interstate 70 through the Colorado mountains.  Projects include electronic signs, closed-circuit cameras and communications systems in various locations where trucks sit out road closures.  The work is expected to be finished by the end of November. Colorado will receive a total of more than $400 million for transportation projects and $103 million for transit projects from the stimulus package.” [Associated Press, 8/24/09] 

 

Ground was broken on the I-25 Interchange project funded by the Recovery Act.  “Stimulus dollars flowing into Northern Colorado, as ground is broken on a major construction project. Ground was broken Thursday on the Crossroads and I-25 interchange.  The busy interchange, which has become a hub of the northern Colorado region, will be rebuilt over the next year using a mixture of stimulus and private dollars.  Right now Crossroads is a small two lane road under I-25.  Once construction is complete, roundabouts will be installed and the road will be widened to four lanes through the entire stretch.  Officials say the project will not only create construction jobs, but will also bring more economic development to the area once construction is complete.” [Northern Colorado 5 (with video), 8/20/09]  

 

Thanks to Recovery Act bond program, Colorado can construct state justice complex and museum, creating 2000 jobs over two year period.  “Plans to build a new Colorado History Museum and state justice complex are going ahead despite the recession and deep budget cuts.  State officials plan to break ground for the new history museum building Wednesday.  Work on the justice complex will begin next year.  The state treasurer estimates the $338 million project will create work for 2,000 people over four years.  The project isn't affected by budget cuts because it's not funded with tax dollars.  Higher court fees and gambling revenue are paying the tab.  However, financing nearly fell through because of the credit crunch.  But the state was able to take advantage of federally subsidized bonds created by the stimulus act to finance it, saving $77 million in interest payments.” [Associated Press, 8/19/09] 

 

Englewood Company won Recovery Act-funded contract for sidewalk repairs.  “Hudspeth & Associates Inc., Englewood, Colo., won a $4,615 federal contract from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha, Neb., for the removal of old caulking and debris on the sidewalk and patio expansion joints and the repair of cracks in front of and behind the Tri-Lakes Project Office under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.” [Targeted News Service, 8/17/09] 

 

Substantial Recovery Act grant available for weatherization of low-income households across Colorado.  “Colorado has received nearly $32 million in federal stimulus funds for weatherization-assistance services for lower-income households, Gov. Bill Ritter announced Thursday.  The money is part of an overall $79 million in weatherization grants the state is expecting to get from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The state received about $7.9 million earlier this year for training and ramp-up activities and can get about $39.5 more later if it meets specific reporting, oversight and accountability measures, Ritter’s office noted.  This money will go to energy audits, home insulation and the installation of high-efficiency appliances like furnaces and refrigerators.  Households making as much as 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level — or about $44,100 a year for a family of four — are eligible for the assistance.” [Denver Business Journal, 8/13/09] 

 

National Science Foundation awarded Recovery Act money to Colorado State University for research concerning communications systems coping with disasters.  “Lighting strikes, floods, and other natural and manmade disasters can mean life or death for people, and they also can devastate computer systems at times when they’re most needed. H.J. Siegel, Tony Maciejewski and Arnold Rosenberg, engineering professors at Colorado State University, have received more than $1 million from the National Science Foundation to design techniques for building robust and dependable computing and communications systems capable of withstanding major, unexpected disruptions. The CSU team includes graduate and undergraduate students.  The grant money is made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. [Press Release – Colorado State University, 8/12/09]

 

Recovery Act grants will fund energy efficiency and renewable energy endeavors across Colorado.  “The Governor`s Energy Office (GEO) announced today it is soliciting applications for a $2 million grant program that marks the inaugural set of renewable energy and energy efficiency grants to be funded through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) in Colorado.  The GEO is accepting applications for the first round of New Energy Economic Development (NEED) grants.  NEED grants provide funding for projects that improve energy efficiency and advance renewable energy for commercial, industrial and public projects while sustaining and creating jobs in the growing green energy sector.  ‘We’re excited to begin directing Recovery Act dollars into innovative New Energy Economy projects,’ said GEO director Tom Plant.  ‘This marks just the first of many Recovery Act-funded grant, rebate and loan packages to flow from GEO designed to create jobs while further advancing Colorado’s leading role in the country’s transition to clean, lower-carbon sources of energy.’” [Estes Park Trail Gazette, 8/12/09]

 

Recovery Act allotment allowed the U.S. Air Force to contract with Colorado Springs Utilities for creation of a 3MW solar farm.  “In the 1970's, the U.S Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs hosted a comprehensive research project on home solar retrofits… But now, 30 years later, solar power has come full circle.  The Academy is set to build a 3MW solar installation that will dwarf the earlier pilot project, providing solar energy not just for one home but for up to 7% of the entire educational complex... According to a report in Defense Industry Daily, the Air Force has contracted with Colorado Springs Utilities to build an $18.3 million solar farm with a capacity of up to 3MW.  Funding for the project will come from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  It's part of $1.4 billion that the Air Force is set to receive for base improvements focused mainly on sustainable energy as part of the administration's efforts to build the market for green jobs.  After 30 years of wandering, it looks like the ‘lost’ solar house has finally found a home.” [Cleantechnica via Reuters, 8/10/09]

 

National Science foundation allocated Recovery Act funds to Colorado University at Boulder to bolster a research initiative that will increase accessibility of healthy dietary choices to underprivileged families.  “Katie Siek, an assistant professor of computer science, received the $600,000 grant from the National Science Foundation's Faculty Early Career Program.  The five-year grant is funded through the stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act…  Siek is working to develop easy-to-use software that would use GPS maps to pinpoint healthy food stores in the communities and share ideas for nutritional, but cheap, recipes.  Siek said she would like for the technology to integrate personal health records into everyday life and empower individuals who want to decrease their risk for cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses.  The device could give personalized feedback to users.  ‘My overall career dream is to have a feedback loop between people and healthcare professionals where people can seamlessly track various health metrics of importance to them, reflect on this longitudinal data with their healthcare professional, and receive relevant feedback on how to improve their overall health and wellbeing,’ Siek said.” [Boulder Daily Camera, 8/10/09]

 

Recovery Act-funded repaving project underway in Fort Collins.  “City officials are asking drivers to avoid Shields Street between Mulberry Street and Prospect Road today through Sunday during a repaving project that will close three of four lanes.  The 1-mile project is being funded mostly by federal stimulus funds.  The cost for the Mulberry-to-Prospect segment is $675,000, which included $85,000 of preparatory work at the city's expense and $590,000 in federal dollars.  The repaving project entails milling off existing asphalt and then adding a 3-inch asphalt overlay.” [Coloradoan, 8/10/09]

 

Colorado school district 51 allocated Recovery Act funding to upgrade services to homeless students.  “An $80,000 grant provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will help local middle schools and high schools provide additional services for homeless students.  The School District 51 REACH program — Resources, Education and Advocacy for Children who are Homeless — has been notified that it will receive the grant.  The program will use the money to send certified teachers to three middle schools, two high schools and the Fruita 8/9 School so they can tutor homeless students, said Cathy Haller, District 51 prevention services coordinator…  ‘Nationally, 50 percent of homeless students drop out of high school,’ Haller said.  The teachers can tell homeless students about the different ways of earning a diploma while supporting their families, including night school and online classes. The teachers also can help bridge the gaps for students when they move a lot because of their situations, Haller said.” [Grand Junction Sentinel, 8/10/09]

 

CSU and several partners received a Recovery Act -funded grant to help develop training programs for emergency workers responding to crashes involving hybrid and battery-powered vehicles.  “CSU and several partners have won a $5 million federal grant to help develop, in part, training programs for emergency workers responding to crashes involving hybrid and battery-powered vehicles.  Hybrid vehicles are now common on roads, but the electrical systems that run them operate at much higher levels - 330 volts for the Ford Escape hybrid instead of the normal 12-volts found in most vehicles, said researchers who won the grant… The grant envisions creating 85 new jobs.  Under the grant, Arapahoe Community College will develop first-responder training programs highlighting how rescuers might have to modify their approach when dealing with hybrid vehicles.  Firefighters have had to adapt in the past, as they did following the introduction of airbags and supplemental restraint systems.” [Coloradoan, 8/7/09]

 

UQM Technologies Inc. acquired a battery production contract funded by Recovery Act.  “The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded more than $50 million to local efforts to accelerate manufacture and deployment of electric vehicles, batteries and components in the United States.  The grants are among 48 advanced battery and electric drive projects to be funded by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds. First, UQM Technologies Inc. (NYSE Amex: UQM) of Frederick has been selected to receive a $45.1 million award.  The DOE award provides for a 50 percent cost share by UQM, raising the total value of the project to $90.2 million, according to a UQM press release… Colorado State University also has been selected to receive a $5 million grant to educate the public about hybrid and electric vehicles and to train hybrid/electric technicians and emergency responders.  The CSU grant is expected to create 85 jobs to help meet a national shortage of trained workers and help rebuild the U.S. auto industry.” [Northern Colorado Business Report, 8/6/09]

 

About 240 locals can take remediation classes to develop job skills, obtain mini-certificates thanks to stimulus funded program at Pueblo Community College.   “Nearly half a million southern Colorado stimulus dollars are about to send some Pueblo residents back to school.  The program is being funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – American Recovery Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  More than $452,000 will be used by the Pueblo County Housing and Human Services department to help about 240 people get mini-certificates from Pueblo Community College (PCC)… The programs have been chosen because they are in fields that are in need of workers right away… The Housing and Human Services department will be footing the bill for the 240 students by paying tuition, fees, equipment, books, and any remediation courses students may need.  And, anyone who participates and is currently receiving unemployment insurance will get an additional 20 weeks once they start classes.  Unemployment insurance usually stops once you go back to school, unless you enroll in an approved program.” [KKTV – CBS, 8/5/09]

 

UQM Technologies Inc. stock soared following announcement that it would receive Recovery Act dollars for battery manufacturing initiative.  “Electric-motor technology company UQM Technologies Inc. said Wednesday it has been awarded $45.1 million by the U.S. Department of Energy under the federal stimulus program.  Federick-based UQM was the only Colorado company to receive a portion of the $2.4 billion in competitive grants that were awarded Wednesday by the Energy Department as part of the ‘Advanced Battery Manufacturing Initiative,’ a program funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, according to the office of Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter.  The stock (AMEX: UQM) rose 31 percent on the news Wednesday, closing at $5.12, near the top of its 52-week range.  

 

Colorado State University in Fort Collins received a $5 million grant under the program and will be partnering with Georgia Institute of Technology, Arapahoe Community College, Douglas County schools and other companies for work on battery technology.  CSU said it plans to use the money to educate the public and train the workforce and emergency responders about the inner workings of hybrid and electric vehicles. CSU said the grant is expected to create 85 jobs to help meet a national shortage of trained hybrid/electric technicians.” [Denver Business Journal, 8/6/09]

 

CSU affiliate will use stimulus grant to hire 85 people to train technicians on energy-efficient technology.  “A Colorado company and a group of colleges and schools on Wednesday landed a $50 million slice of $2.4 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds meant to support the development of advanced electric-drive vehicles.  President Barack Obama said the money would be used to get U.S.-made electric vehicles to market.  About $1.5 billion will be funneled through the U.S. Department of Energy to companies — including UQM Technologies Inc. of Frederick — developing advanced batteries and components.  UQM said it will receive $45.1 million.  About $400 million will be used to buy and test electric vehicles, install charging stations and train workers for electric transportation in programs.  Colorado State University will use its $5 million stimulus grant to help educate the public and train technicians to work on hybrid and electric vehicles.  The grant is expected to create 85 jobs, most of them training positions.” [Denver Post, 8/6/09]

 

Recovery Act funded construction of new green bus facility in Summit County.  “With a group of dignitaries on hand to turn ceremonial shovels of dirt, local officials marked the groundbreaking for a new fleet maintenance facility for Summit Stage buses and other county vehicles.  ‘One of the best ways to work your way out of economic problems is to invest in infrastructure,’ said Colorado Department of Transportation director Russ George.  The Summit County project is partially funded by about $10 million of federal money for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Summit County matched the federal funding with about $4.5. ‘The money is getting out there ... And creating jobs’ George said. ‘It's not some abstract thing,’ he added. ‘This is a tremendous example of a concrete thing that will be here for decades,’ he said.” [Summit Daily News, 8/6/09]

 

20 students employed by University of Colorado at Boulder Labs with Recovery Act money.  “While many students head home for summer break to recuperate after the school year, University of Colorado at Boulder junior Makenzie Lewis spent her summer in a laboratory studying new approaches to control chronic pain.  Lewis was one of 20 CU-Boulder students who benefited from grants totaling nearly $200,000 that allowed them to continue working in five CU-Boulder labs during the summer… Lewis works in Professor Linda Watkins' lab in the psychology and neuroscience department, where she helps with projects exploring ways to improve the clinical effectiveness of drugs used for pain control. ‘The students working with me would not have been able to participate in research over the summer if it had not been for these stimulus funds,’ said Watkins, who was awarded two grants allowing six undergraduates to continue working in her laboratories this summer. ‘Our students are working on projects all the way from cell culture to molecular biology to pharmacology to anatomy.’” [University of Colorado at Boulder, 8/4/09]

 

Through Recovery Act award, the Colorado Department of Transportation initiated an 11-mile surface treatment project on I-76.  “This week, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) began an 11-mile surface treatment project on eastbound I-76 between approximately Ovid and the Nebraska State Line (mileposts 173 to 184) that will repair deteriorating concrete.  The $15.8 million project is being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  ‘This is great news for Northeast Colorado,’ said U.S. Representative Betsy Markey.  ‘I-76 is a critical highway for agriculture, business and tourism in our corner of Colorado, and making maintenance and safety repairs along this stretch of road will play a key role in the economic recovery of the region.  This project will put Coloradans back to work, bring local jobs to Northeast Colorado and make much-needed improvements in our infrastructure.’  As a result of this project, Interstate Highway Construction, the contractor for this project, will put 13 private-sector employees to work this year and about 35 next year, ultimately preventing layoffs.  This does not include the number of private-sector jobs created by subcontractors of this project.” [Holyoke Enterprise, 7/22/09]

 

Colorado obtained Recovery Act money for renewable energy projects.  “With the approval of Colorado's plan for renewable-energy and efficiency projects, the state is receiving $19.6 million in federal economic-stimulus money.  The funding, announced Monday by the U.S. Department of Energy, is part of a total of $49 million for energy projects Colorado is eligible for under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  ‘What we are trying to do is not just one-time projects,’ said Todd Hartman, spokesman for the Governor's Energy Office. ‘We want to use the funds to build up infrastructure for energy efficiency and renewables.’  The programs include financial incentives to builders to promote energy efficiency in new-home construction and to homeowners for energy efficiency in existing homes.” [Denver Post, 7/21/09]

 

The Smart Grid Demonstration Project in Fort Collins targeting clean energy bolstered by Recovery Act grant.  “The Smart Grid Demonstration Project in Fort Collins will receive a $4.8 million boost thanks to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The funds will help the city of Fort Collins and several other partners continue research, development and demonstration of an integrated system of clean energy technologies and distributed energy resources.” [Northern Colorado Business Report, 7/20/09]

 

Colorado will get Recovery Act funds for a rebate program to promote the purchase of energy-efficient appliances.  “Colorado will get $4,739,253 in federal stimulus funds for a rebate program to promote the purchase of energy-efficient appliances. The money – to be distributed through the state – will be paid to those who buy appliances rated under the federal "Energy Star" program, according to a joint announcement from Colorado's two U.S. senators, Mark Udall and Michael Bennet.” [Denver Business Journal, 7/15/09]

 

EPA regional administrator expects Recovery Act allowance will generate hundreds of jobs while improving water quality.  “In a move that stands to create jobs, boost local economies, improve aging water infrastructure and protect human health and the environment for the people of Colorado, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $ 27,481,600 to the Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority.  This new infusion of money provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will help the state and local governments finance many of the overdue improvements to water projects that are essential to protecting public health and the environment across the state. [Press Release – Environmental Protection Agency, 7/14/09]

 

Recovery Act disbursements have led to a 10 percent increase in the workforce of a local company.  “The Corps of Engineers has named Riverside, a science, engineering, and information technology consulting company, to work on accelerated deployment of the Corps Water Management System.  With funding from the economic stimulus package passed by Congress in February, the Corps' Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC) chose Riverside, which specializes in water resources and environmental decision support systems… As a result of Riverside's role in this project as well as other projects won this year, Riverside has experienced a 10 percent increase in staff since the beginning of 2009.” [Hydro Review, 7/14/09]

 

Recovery Act funds paid for 7-mile highway resurfacing project in Southwestern Colorado, the second to begin in the area.  “The Colorado Department of Transportation began another American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) project on Monday.  This project, which will resurface a seven-mile section of US 160 East of Alamosa, is the second ARRA-funded project to break ground in CDOT’s Region 5 (southwest Colorado, including the San Luis Valley.)  The first was a resurfacing and safety-improvement project on SH 62 over Dallas Divide in Ouray and San Miguel counties.” [Alamosa Valley Courier, 7/13/09]

 

Recovery Act dollars will permit a community college to create a job training curriculum for low-income community members.  “Aims Community College will receive $250,000 in federal money to fund apprenticeships and training centers for disadvantaged people seeking careers in transportation, engineering or construction… The job training program encourages completion of training and promotes training opportunities for minorities and women in skilled and semi-skilled crafts.” [Greeley Tribune, 7/9/09]

 

600 disadvantaged teenagers hired with Recovery Act funds; administrator attributes Recovery Act with bringing “hope” to employees.  “As a 17-year-old with a newborn baby at home, Kailah Chineth doesn't have much time to cook.  But this summer, she's cooking eight hours a day – and getting paid to do it, thanks to a summer job with the Denver Housing Authority.  Chenith is one of 300 at-risk teens hired by DHA this summer using grant money from the Federal Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act. DHA, along with Goodwill and La Raza, are combining to hire 600 Denver kids this summer – all with stimulus dollars, around $763,000 in all.” [KDVR – FOX, 7/8/09]

 

Recovery Act funds will put 600 young people to work in Colorado this summer.  “The Denver Office of Economic Development said Tuesday it has awarded contracts to three groups to run the city's stimulus-funded summer Youth Employment Program… ‘These contracts represent the first federal stimulus dollars flowing through the Denver Office of Economic Development that benefit local businesses and our community,’ André Pettigrew, executive director of the Denver OED, said in a statement.  ‘The program provides an important resource for businesses to fill jobs while helping youth gain workforce knowledge, skills and abilities that will lead to rewarding, successful and sustainable employment.’” [Denver Business Journal, 7/7/09]

 

$25 million in Recovery Act dollars applied to construction of Mesa Verde National Park visitor center.  “After architectural drawings are complete, ground should be broken for the new building in spring 2010, said park Superintendent Larry Wiese.  ‘Eighteen months from there, we hope for visitors to walk into the doors,’ Wiese said.  ‘This has been a plan, a hope and a dream of the park superintendents since the 1920s.’ Initial construction for the project has begun using $25 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Projects related to that funding include new road construction, water line repair and renewable-energy systems.” [Cortez Journal, 7/3/09]

 

Roughly $2 million from Recovery Act slated for Colorado Springs law enforcement will be “huge” benefit on equipment front and significantly increase officer safety.  El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa:  “The benefit it's delivering to us on the equipment front is huge.  We have equipment that is failing, especially on the IT aspect.  It couldn't come at a better time.” [Colorado Springs Gazette, 7/1/09]

 

$1.5 million in Recovery Act dollars employed by Clinica Family Health Services for facility upgrades.  “Lafayette’s Clinica Family Health Services Inc. has received nearly $1.5 million in federal economic stimulus money to renovate and upgrade facilities.  The center was one of 15 federally qualified community health centers in Colorado that received money Wednesday.  The largest grants in Colorado went to the Salud Family Health Center for a new Fort Morgan clinic and to Denver Health’s Community Health Services for the expansion of the Montbello Family Health Center and the purchase of equipment.” [Boulder Daily Camera, 7/1/09]

 

Recovery Act dollars will fund “overdue” overlay construction on Weld County Road 74.  “Weld County Road 74 is due, or overdue, for an overlay.  Thanks to federal stimulus dollars, that project is set to get underway this year.” [Windsor Beacon, 6/27/09]

 

Millions in Recovery Act funds allocated to Grand Junction Regional Airport for rehabilitation.  “Grand Junction Regional Airport will receive $1.2 million in federal stimulus funds, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced Thursday.  The money authorized under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will go to the City of Grand Junction/County Mesa/Walker Field Public Airport Authority for Grand Junction Regional Airport. It will be used for rehabilitation of a portion of the airport’s apron that has deteriorated.” [Denver Business Journal, 6/25/09]

 

$2.2 million infusion of Recovery Act funds to Routt National Forest is enabling companies to rehire laid-off personnel and hire entirely new loggers.  Steamboat Springs-based Rogue Resources owner:  “We can now bring some guys that were laid off back to work, and we can hire some new guys.  This is just a good deal for us all around.” [Steamboat Pilot & Today, 6/15/09]

 

Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport will repave main taxiway with Recovery Act funds.  “Two years after running out of money to rebuild its main taxiway, the Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport soon will have the money to finish the work.  A stimulus grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will provide nearly $566,800 to cover the costs of restoring and repaving part of the Alpha Taxiway. [Loveland Reporter-Herald, 6/14/09]

 

Summit County fleet maintenance facility made possible through Recovery Act funds disbursed last week for transit infrastructure.  “Another slice of stimulus money will help Summit County directly by paying for the new fleet maintenance facility near the County Commons.”  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood:  “By reinvesting in our nation's transit infrastructure, we are making our communities more livable, invigorating the local economy, and putting America back to work.” [Summit Daily News, 6/13/09]

 

Recovery Act grant to five youth training programs allowed Mile High Youth Corps Training to employ 18 new young people this summer.  The federal economic-stimulus money allowed Mile High to hire an additional 18 students.  Senator Bennet:  “This is an incredible organization that allows you to learn skills and take time to think about what you want to do with your life as you make that contribution to your community.” [Denver Post, 6/13/09]

 

Four Colorado projects designed to convert wood waste into energy received Recovery Act grants.  “The grants were awarded to Noresco to assist the development of a biomass boiler heating system at a prison in Florence; Confluence Energy, for processing wood for a wood- pellet facility; Colorado Springs Utilities, to support the co-firing of a coal facility with woody biomass; and Boulder County Open Space and Parks, to establish a biomass collection site and reinstall a biomass heating system.” [The Denver Post, 6/12/09]

 

Recovery Act funds to “preserve critical jobs,” improve education statewide.  “By spending the money wisely, we can preserve critical jobs, ensure that more kids graduate from high school fully prepared to succeed in college and the workforce and further strengthen Colorado’s competitive position in the global economy.” [Denver Business Journal, 6/10/09]

 

Colorado will use Recovery Act funds to train workers who lost jobs to outsourcing.  Colorado will get $3,270,845 as its share of $456 million in additional funds to states under the Recovery Act to help more of these workers upgrade existing skills or retrain for new careers in industries that have the potential to grow in the coming months and years.” [Denver Business Journal, 6/10/09]

 

USDA allocates Recovery Act funding for ecosystem restoration and forest road upkeep in Colorado.  Coloradans can expect to benefit from safer roads and healthier, more vibrant ecosystems thanks to $7.4 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture funding coming to the state for forest road maintenance and associated watershed and ecosystem restoration. [Press Release – Senator Michael Bennet, 6/3/09]

 

The second Recovery Act-funded transportation project in Colorado’s Seventh District began today.  The $4.7 million project is one of two Recovery Act projects starting this week in the Denver metro area, bringing the total to four in Denver. [Cherry Creek News, 6/2/09]

 

Colorado’s 15 community health centers are expected to get $1.2 million in Recovery Act funds.  Federal money will help to address increased need with more Coloradans losing their jobs and health insurance. [Denver Business Journal, 5/28/09]

 

Denver Water become’s the state’s first agency to issue Build America Bonds, a new bond program created by the Recovery Act. [Denver Business Journal, 5/28/09]

 

Governor Ritter launched Colorado’s first Recovery Act-funded highway project on Tuesday.  CDOT has committed money to 32 projects. [Denver Post, 5/20/09]

 

Colorado’s first road project funded by Recovery Act funds will break ground Tuesday.  The project would probably have between 12 and 20 people working on it. [Denver Business Journal, 5/18/09]

 

Custer County clinic receiving Recovery Act funds to upgrade equipment. [Associated Press, 5/18/09]

 

Recovery Act tax incentives for green energy encouraged Nestle Purina to hire REC Solar to set up solar energy system at Denver plant.  REC CEO:  “We expect that the focus of the federal stimulus package on renewables will spur more and more Colorado businesses and organizations to find ways to increase their sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint.  In addition, we are proud to contribute to the local economy by creating more solar jobs in Colorado.” [Nestle Purina Release, 5/15/09]

 

Colorado will receive $86 million in Recovery Act funds from the Interior Department.  Projects will repair bridges and road, restore wildlife habitats, and update Mesa Verde National Park’s water system. [Associated Press, 5/13/09]

 

Recovery Act funds allowed the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps to bolster its staff and support community businesses.  RMYC will add an additional three crews this summer, each consisting of 10 young adults ages 19 to 25 who will work 40 hours a week this summer removing beetle-killed trees 12 inches in diameter and less. [The Steamboat Pilot & Today, 5/10/09]

 

Western Colorado will receive $48 million for transportation projects.  Head of Mesa County Workforce Center said it was an opportunity for unemployed and underemployed to get back into the job market. [KJCT-8, 5/5/09]

 

Recovery Act funding helps remove uranium contamination that threatened Colorado River. [Denver Post, 5/5/09]

 

Colorado will spend Recovery Act funds on solar projects in Dolores, construction in Zapata Falls.  Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar:  “Through these economic recovery investments, we are also making a down payment on restoring and protecting the stunning landscapes that BLM manages on behalf of the American people.”  In Colorado, Bureau of Land Management projects to be funded include $5,972,000 for 17 capital-improvement projects, many of them involving solar energy.  The capital projects range from replacing the roof and installing a solar-power system at the Anasazi Heritage Center museum in Dolores to campground construction at Zapata Falls near the Great Sand Dunes. [Denver Business Journal, 5/4/09]