Did You Know...

**Written by Doug Powers

In June of last year, when “Recovery Summer” was just kicking off, construction began on an Orlando parkway to be named after President Obama and, fittingly enough, paid for with stimulus funds.

The first section of road has been completed:

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony that showcased President Barack Obama Parkway, near the Mall at Millenia.

Phase I connects President Barack Obama Parkway north of Conroy Road to Metrowest Boulevard, a mile-and-a-half stretch that includes lighting, sidewalks and on-street bike lanes. Shingle Creek Trail, used by pedestrians and bicyclists, was also extended.

Dyer said 150 jobs were created in Phase I of construction, which cost $10.5 million. The city will hire 150 more workers when Phase II begins, he said.

If you’re looking for it, the Pres. Barack Obama Parkway is just a mile east of the intersection of “Pass This” and “Jobs Bill” (formerly “Hope” and “Change”).

It’s a shame the President couldn’t have been the first to drive down his road — he was just in Orlando for two fundraisers and a beer yesterday.

Click the pic to roll tape:

**Written by Doug Powers

Twitter @ThePowersThatBe