The contract to replace the bridge over Big Mountain Creek on Capel Mill Road has been awarded, said N.C. Transportation Secretary Gene Conti.

Dane Construction Inc. of Mooresville was awarded the contract for a bid of $446,684.

Work can start as early as April 27 with a completion date of Sept. 1.

“Keeping our bridges safe is a top priority, and this replacement will serve area motorists for years to come,” said Tim Johnson, NCDOT Division 8 engineer, who is overseeing the project.

Nearby Montgomery and Scotland counties will soon receive road widening projects as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, NCDOT said.

They too can begin as early as April 27.

“These projects will provide much-needed work for construction companies, boost the success of local businesses and complete needed infrastructure improvements,” Conti said.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, every $1 million spent on transportation creates 30 jobs.

Construction industry figures indicate every dollar invested in transportation trickles down into the economy six times.

Lynn Thomas Grading Inc. of Polkton received a $4.3 million contract which will boost the capacity level and improve traffic flow along N.C. 24/27, which is a strategic corridor in Montgomery County. The completion date is Aug. 1, 2011.

Boggs Paving Inc. of Monroe was awarded a $2.4 million contract to give motorists a local road connector between U.S. 15/401 Bypass and U.S. 15 Alternate (South Main Street) and improve access within the hospital district in Scotland County. The completion date is July 15, 2010.

Contact reporter Tom MacCallum at 997-3111, ext. 15; e-mail tmaccallum@yourdailyjournal.com.