MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

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November 19, 2009

Study finds tribes help state on roads, bridges

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Department of Transportation director told a House committee that tribes have assisted the state with 39 projects over the last six years to the tune of $72 million for roads and bridges.

Director Gary Ridley said in a media release that the tribes have been helpful to state and local governments on a variety of issues. He spoke at a House Transportation Committee interim study requested by state Rep. T.W. Shannon on tribal road program partnerships.

Both the Chickasaw Nation and Cherokee Nation are currently using stimulus funds on Oklahoma road and bridge projects. Michael Lynn, roads program director for the Cherokee Nation, said they had received $11.3 million in stimulus funds. Zac Hawkins, transportation planner for the Chickasaw Nation, said they are using stimulus funds for two bridge projects in McClain County.



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