Economic Impact of Highway Construction
New highway construction can be a major player in the economic improvement of a given area, generating revenue in the billions of dollars and creating new jobs, according to the Delta Regional Authority. This increase in economic development only comes after a brief slow down while the construction project is taking place.
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Job Creation
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Highway construction projects require an increase in the workforce of government contractors and state-run organizations. This leads to more job opportunities for workers of all kinds from construction workers to masons, commercial drivers and even civil engineers. The increase in employment leads to a boost in local economies in the form of increased consumer spending which can allow businesses like restaurants to thrive or at least pay the bills.
New Business Attraction
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According to the Delta Regional Authority, new highway construction leads to an increase in business development in a given area because of the increased safety and ease of travel. New businesses lead to new job opportunities for local residents and bring in new income to the area in the form of tax revenues generated through product sales. Customers brought to an area for one particular business may purchase products from other local businesses, which leads to a boost in sales for established area businesses as well.
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Traffic Jams
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Highway construction projects may lead to more jobs and improved commerce, but they also can be a pain for travelers during the actual building phase of the project. Traffic jams associated with highway construction can hurt local businesses because travelers try to avoid certain clogged sections of highway in favor of better moving roads.
Better Regional Connectivity
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Highway construction projects improve regional connectivity through increased transportation efficiency. This helps break down economic isolation an area may be feeling because of lack of convenient access to a major roadway. The reduced costs of transportation generated through increased travel efficiency also leaves more money in the bank accounts of consumers, which can then be used on local businesses.
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