WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced that the South Lawrence Trafficway (SLT) is one big step closer to breaking ground, improving safety for motorists and promoting economic development throughout the Kansas Technology Corridor. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) released its Record of Decision clearing the way for federal funds to be spent on construction of the SLT, and completing the environmental impact survey.

"I am pleased to see that completion of the SLT on the 32^nd street route is one big step closer to reality," Senator Roberts said. "This road is a win, win, win. It is critical to the safety of Lawrence residents and motorists from the region; it will expand the Baker Wetlands, making a critical investment to wetlands research; and most important, it will safely connect the Southern Kansas City area with Lawrence and points beyond fostering further economic development along the Kansas Technology Corridor. This project is key to smart development, with an eye toward future demand, especially as Kansas focuses on efforts to expand it’s growing biotechnology industry."

Senator Roberts secured $1.5 million for the Army Corps of Engineers approved 32^nd Street route in the 2006 Transportation Appropriations Bill, which jump started this federal review process. Roberts is an outspoken advocate for increased federal, state and local investment in science and technology research and development infrastructure.

Roberts has led the delegation to move construction of the SLT forward. In May and December of 2006, Senator Roberts sent letters to the FHWA signed by other members of the delegation in a strong show of support for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision which approved the 32^nd Street route for the South Lawrence Trafficway.

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