Claims Dept.: Obama on stimulus

markjohnson — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:56:43 -0400

President Barack Obama declared in his speech in Raleigh today that the results of federal stimulus money can already be seen in the Triangle. Here's the reality:

Obama: "The beltline is being resurfaced between Wake Forest Road and Wade Avenue..."

Reality: North Carolina received the first installment of $735 million in stimulus money for roads and bridges in February, including $4 million for I-440 (the Beltline) between Wake Forest Road and Wade Avenue.

Obama: "The Raleigh Durham Airport is renovating its runways..."

Reality: The airport received a total of $5.9 million in stimulus money to install new lights on the runways and taxiways.

Obama: "The city of Raleigh's transit system is building a new operations and maintenance facility..."

Reality: Raleigh received $7.6 million in stimulus money to purchase 23 acres off Poole Road for the operations and maintenance center and a park-and-ride lot.

Obama: "Over 500 people are going to work as part of a summer youth work initiative..."

Reality: The workforce development board for Wake and Johnston counties announced in April that it was awarded $3.2 million in stimulus money to find jobs for dislocated workers, underemployed adults and youths. Wake County officials at the time estimated the money would enable them to find jobs for 600 youths, 130 dislocated workers and 80 other adults.

Obama: "Water treatment plants are being renovated throughout the Triangle..."

Reality: Raleigh was awarded $771,000 for a water reuse irrigation system at the Neuse River Wastewater Treatment Plant. Holly Springs received $81,600 for a solar powered mixing system to aid their water treatment. Earlier this month, Cary was awarded $3 million to help pay for new pumps and water treatment system improvements.