By Brittany Matthews

(AXcess News) Washington - The start of construction season means more jobs for American workers who have been hit hard by the failing economy, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood told the National Press Club Thursday.

Since the February passage of the economic stimulus package, the government has set aside nearly $800 billion to help reconstruct the American economy and create long-term jobs for many workers.

LaHood said that his department will use transportation funding included in the stimulus package to create more jobs by expanding public transportation, improving roads and renovating airports across the nation.

"It's a program focused on results that puts wages in people's pocket," said LaHood. "It is a lifeline for adults who work in construction and have been hit especially hard by the downturn."

While LaHood was optimistic that the stimulus package will aid in the recovery of American economy, some believe that it is just a little too late. "The more people I meet who are benefiting from the stimulus investment," said LaHood.  "The more I believe we are restoring stability to communities affected by the recession."

As an example, LaHood cited several different success stories of contractors across the nation. One won a $6 million contract that led to the creation of 40 jobs and enabled the company to buy several new pieces of heavy equipment.

LaHood acknowledged the need to create more jobs at a faster rate and he said he understood that 40 jobs may not seem like a lot when millions of people have been laid off.  "You may not think that makes a big dent," he said. "But you have to remember what would happen if that work was not there."

"Every job that puts an unemployed breadwinner back to work is an important job," insisted LaHood. "And it has a ripple effect."

Source: Scripps Howard Foundation Wire