Stimulating Stamford

Check it: Stamford’s list of “shovel ready” projects recommended by the US Conference of Mayors as potential projects for Obama’s stimulus package.

Most expensive? 54MM for phase 2 of the Urban Transitway.

Biggest jobs generator? Progress St Apartments at 230. (creation of low Income Housing in the West Side if I’m not mistaken)

I’m in favor of the stimulus – however I think it’s somewhat of a wasted opportunity if it doesn't shoot higher – a national energy grid, alt energy, interstate high speed rail, something to stab at our larger national issues while also creating jobs. The argument is those projects would probably take time to implement, and jobs would bleed as shovels remained clean. So if it’s going to go forward regardless we might as well get a taste especially considering our normal rate of return. For every $ 1 Connecticut pays in federal tax we see $0.61 back, the third worst return rate of all 50 states. Remember that next time some southern Republican Senator is on CSPAN shaking one fist at a “welfare state” while pocketing double their rate of return of federal taxes with the other hand. Combine that with accusations that Governor Rell is directing less state aid towards the cities in recent years. Bridgeport isn't being shy with their requests. What on the list should we hold out for? What's missing?