Throughout President Barack Obama’s speeches, he constantly mentions “shovel-ready” projects.
While there is no formal definition for “shovel-ready” projects, Obama defines it as nationwide projects where plans and approvals are secured and people could be put to work right away once funding is in place.
This is good news because the wait on resources is no longer a factor.
After months deliberating, Obama has finally signed the $787 billion economic stimulus package into law.
Tallahassee is one of many cities that have prepared proposals for “shovel-ready” projects.
According to stimuluswatch.org, the city officials’ main focus is on infrastructure and, they plan to direct time and money into housing and sewage.
It’s completely understood that our roads and water wastes need much improvement, and that millions of people are without jobs.
But will the school system become legislatures number one priority?
According to tampabay.com, Florida schools will get $622 million in special education grants, $509 million for high-poverty schools, $148 million in school-improvement grants, $31 million for education technology. In higher education, Florida will get $937 million for Pell grants.
It’s great that we are receiving some money from the stimulus package, but it’s still not going to stop the shortfall of revenue. I guess the necessary thing to say is thanks, and continue to keep the hope alive.
Letitia Skippings for the Editorial Board.