LEE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Southern Base of the Research Triangle Region NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, October 9, 2003 STATE OFFICIAL VISITS SANFORD TO DISCUSS LOCAL AND STATEWIDE HIGHWAY PROJECTS SANFORD -- With local road construction continuing and now forcing a major detour for travelers along Hawkins Avenue, transportation issues are on the mind of just about everyone in the area. With attention already focused on highway projects, G.R. Kindley, vice chairman of the North Carolina Board of Transportation, will be in Sanford next week to discuss major transportation issues facing the state and how they affect Lee County. Kindley will appear as guest speaker at the Lee County Committee of 100's fall quarterly meeting, scheduled for 8 a.m. on Oct. 15 at Chef Paul's Cafe and Catering. The breakfast meeting is open to the public. A resident of Rockingham and board representative for the region encompassing Lee County, Kindley will review new transportation projects and how local governments can improve their chance for funding through the Transportation Improvement Program. Administered by the Division of Highways, the program funds a variety of projects to improve transportation in North Carolina. Several projects have already been requested by local leaders. At the top of the list is widening Highway 42 and Broadway Road from Horner Boulevard to Main Street in Broadway. Improvements would improve traffic flow between Lee County's only municipalities and ease crowding along an important industrial corridor. Eight other projects suggest improving, extending or widening critical local arteries. The Board of Transportation makes policy for the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Among its responsibilities are approving state highway construction projects, awarding construction contracts and allocating highway funding authorized by the North Carolina General Assembly and secured through Federal sources. All Committee of 100 meetings are open to the public; the cost, including breakfast, is $10 per person for members, $15 per person for guests. For reservations or information, contact Jane Haber at the Lee County Economic Development Corp., 919-774-8439 or info@lcedc.com. The Committee of 100 is an organization of business leaders committing time, energy and resources to enhance the economic well-being of Lee County and its citizens. Corporate and individual members assist the Lee County Economic Development Corp. by establishing venture capital projects to expand local industry, helping to promote economic growth and enhancing working relationships among government, business and the community. -- 30 -- Media Contacts: Bob Heuts, Director Jane Haber, Administrative Assistant 919-774-8439 (phone) 919-775-5410 (fax) info@lcedc.com (e-mail) Media Web: http://www.lcedc.com/media/ This release: http://www.lcedc.com/media/releases/nr100903.txt