Bay Area Council Endorses Governor Schwarzenegger's Decision to Re-Bid the Eastern Span of the Bay Bridge Project.

SAN FRANCISCO -- Today the Bay Area Council announced its support of Governor Schwarzenegger's decision to re-bid the Eastern Span of the Bay Bridge and to use the repackaging of the bid as an opportunity to lower the costs of the project.

"Given where we are at this point and time, and the advice of experts brought in by the Administration to review the entire project, the Governor's decision to re-bid is the best way to go," said Jim Wunderman, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council. "We urge the State to find the most cost effective solution that will take the least time to complete in order to protect the safety of the more than 275,000 motorists that cross the span a day."

Continued Wunderman, "The Governor and Business, Transportation and Housing Secretary Sunne Wright McPeak have done an impressive job leading an effort to explore how to reduce the price of the project. With a new bid, they will be able to draw on the expertise of contractors to find additional ways to cut costs. The Bay Area Council, business associations from throughout the region and others have held discussions with the Governor's administration on the Bay Bridge, and will continue to work with the Administration, Senator Perata and other Bay Area Legislators to inform the final decision. We are hopeful that by early December of 2004, the best choice will be apparent to all stakeholders."

Bay Area Council

Founded in 1945, the Bay Area Council (www.bayareacouncil.org) develops and drives regional public policy initiatives and researches critical infrastructure issues. Led by CEOs, the Bay Area Council presents a strong, united voice for more than 275 of the largest employers throughout the Bay Area region in promoting economic prosperity and quality of life. Jim Wunderman has served as president and CEO of the Bay Area Council since April of 2004.