Lettiere, presents Secaucus

with $1.5 million "Fix-it-First" check

for repairs to Meadowlands Parkway bridge

(Trenton) - Citing the need to be vigilant in overhauling the state's aging bridge infrastructure, Transportation Commissioner Jack Lettiere today presented a check for $1.5 million to the Town of Secaucus for the repair of the aging Meadowlands Parkway bridge. The grant was financed through the Statewide Transportation and Local Bridge Bond Act of 1999.

"Today's grant represents not only an investment in our state's local infrastructure, but it is also an example of how we are applying principles of "Fix-It-First" to our transportation network," said Lettiere. "When we work together to advance these kinds of projects, our residents reap the benefits of transportation improvements that keep our economy and citizens moving."

The 30-year-old structure, which runs over NJ TRANSIT's Bergen Line, needs deck and structural repairs. It is one of the state's 2,000 aging bridges. Under Governor McGreevey's directive, the NJDOT has refocused capital dollars to repair existing infrastructure, like the Meadowlands Parkway bridge.

Lettiere was joined by State Assemblyman Anthony Impreveduto and Secaucus Mayor Dennis Elwell.

"The $1.5 million for the rehabilitation of the Meadowlands Bridge is not only a critical investment in our infrastructure, but an investment in Hudson County and the entire region," said Impreveduto, who worked with NJDOT to secure funding for the project. "Thousands pass over this bridge daily, and beneath it. I'd like to thank the Governor McGreevey and Commissioner Lettiere for their commitment as we work together on these issues that affect all New Jerseyans."

Built in 1973, the Meadowlands Parkway bridge serves as a primary access route to $450 million Secaucus Transfer Station and the Allied Junction development project. The road will also be used as a detour route for upcoming NJ TRANSIT and NJ Turnpike projects.

Work will be completed by Fall 2003.