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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2005


CONTACT: Raymond A. Beck
City Manager
(573) 874-6338
or 
Paula Hertwig Hopkins
Assistant City Manager
(573) 874-7214

House approves funding for Stadium Boulevard extension
									
	(COLUMBIA, MO) - The U.S. House of Representatives recently
approved H.R. 3, The Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, by a
417-9 margin. This legislation reauthorizing the federal highway program
includes $2.5 million secured by U.S. Congressman Kenny Hulshof for the
extension of Stadium Boulevard from Highway 63 to I-70. The funds are
eligible for design, right-of-way or construction. The total project
cost is about $44 million. The city, county and state are working
cooperatively on this project.
	"I am very pleased to learn that Congressman Hulshof has been
successful in securing funding in the House Highway Reauthorization Bill
for the 740/Stadium Boulevard Extension Project," said Columbia City
Manager Raymond A. Beck. "I extend my thanks to Congressman Hulshof
and his staff for their efforts on this important project. When
complete, the Stadium Boulevard extension will serve as a vital
transportation corridor in a very busy part of our city."
	The planned Stadium Boulevard extension is approximately three
miles and would provide improved traffic flow in the eastern part of
Columbia. It would also alleviate traffic congestion and safety concerns
associated with the I-70/HWY 63 interchange. Hulshof included the
funding after receiving favorable input from the city of Columbia, the
Columbia Chamber of Commerce and the Boone County Commission.
	"I would like to thank Congressman Hulshof for his effort on
behalf of this very important project. This is a wise expenditure of
public funds because it is clear this extension is needed," said
Columbia Mayor Darwin Hindman. "By laying out the route and
right-of-way, we can save a tremendous amount of money in the long run.
When finished, I expect it to relieve a lot of pressure on the 
I-70/Highway 63 intersection as well as I-70 itself, and be very
convenient for people coming in and out of columbia, giving the area an
economic boost."
	The bill now moves on to the United States Senate for approval.
"I look forward to working with Senators Bond and Talent as we move
forward on this important project," Hulshof said.

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