The Surge Bill is now law.
Gov. Dalrymple signed the $1.1 billion infrastructure bill into law at a Capitol ceremony Tuesday. The money goes toward infrastructure projects – not only in western North Dakota, but statewide.
"This early funding bill is very important," said Dalrymple. "It enables our Department of Transprotation, the counties out west and townships across the state, as well as the important cities in oil country to get a jump start on the 2015 construction season."
Senate Majority Leader Rich Wardner (R-Dickinson) says the $1.1 billion may seem like a lot of money, especially when there are other needs in the oil patch, such as law enforcement, mental health and medical providers.
"The fact is, until we have those things -- safe roads, streets, sewers, water and homes for the people to live in, we will not find the providers to move in to this area of the state and take care of these needs," said Wardner.
Now that the bill is signed, the money is available – and bids can be let.