Oklahoma
State Senate
Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
For Immediate Release: April 20, 2009
Sen. Mike Mazzei
Bill Clearing Way for Arkansas River Corridor Development Heads
to Governor
A bond authorization bill that could result in the
creation of more than 9,000 jobs is now on its way to Governor
Brad Henry for consideration. Senator Mike
Mazzei, R-Tulsa, is principal author of Senate Bill 239, which
will authorize bonds needed to make safety improvements to Zink
Dam, as well as create low-water dams in Sand Springs and the
Jenks/South Tulsa areas.
“SB 239 authorizes $25 million in bonds, but that will enable
us to secure an additional $50 million in federal funds for this
project,” Mazzei said. “Over the next seven years,
these projects are projected to create a total economic impact
of $2.8 billion and approximately 9,450 jobs—this is a phenomenal
economic development opportunity for Oklahoma.”
Mazzei said the $25 million bond authorization language was actually
approved by the 2008 legislature, but the State Supreme Court
ruled the projects contained in the bill had to be approved in
separate pieces of legislation.
“Certainly we’ve seen the economic growth and development
along the Oklahoma River and what a success that has been for
central Oklahoma,” Mazzei said. “We are now poised
to create an exciting array of projects along the Arkansas River
Corridor that will create jobs, boost tourism and address important
safety issues as well. These enhancements will ultimately benefit
our entire state.”
For more information contact:
Sen. Mazzei's Office - 405-521-5675
