October 15, 2008

Statement By:
Barney Bishop, President and CEO of Associated Industries of Florida.
Regarding Governor Crist’s Announcement to Accelerate $1.4 Billion in Road Construction

“On behalf of Associated Industries of Florida and our members across Florida, I applaud Governor Crist for his decision to accelerate a $1.4 billion investment in Florida’s road system.  This type of investment in infrastructure is exactly what the state needs during these tough economic times.  Spending dollars on roads equals jobs. Spending dollars on roads not only equals jobs but it is also estimated to return more than 5 dollars to the economy for every dollar invested

AIF has long been a proponent of investing in infrastructure as a way to get the economy moving again as evidenced by our advocacy of an Economic Stimulus Package last session, which was endorsed by nearly 20 business groups across the state. The Governor has aggressively worked to solve this economic downturn by truly listening to the business community and taking action.  We commend the Governor and the Florida Department of Transportation for their leadership on this issue.  We look forward to working with the Governor and Legislature next session to fan the flames this economic spark provides.”