between Milpas and Hot Springs exits in Santa Barbara will continue as scheduled but that could change soon, the California Department of Finance announced Feb. 6.

Despite budget troubles, which have suspended many infrastructure projects throughout the state, the department lifted the suspension order for projects where a local funding match may provide temporary funding until a state budget is passed. However, if no agreement is reached on the state budget in the coming week, a halt could occur shortly thereafter.

The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments is negotiating a financing agreement with Caltrans that could allow local Measure D funds to provide interim funding if necessary.  The SBCAG Board will meet on Feb. 19 to consider approving a financing agreement of up to $5 million for the project.

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