After a strong period of bid allocation, the implementation of public works has intensified, especially in the Ministry of Development, which is the main investor. This serves to stimulate the economic activity and employment as well as to make up for the sharp decrease of residential construction.

Beneficiaries

Building contractors and workers hired either directly or indirectly to work in public projects who, according to some official estimates, might amount to 500,000 approximately. This will also benefit citizens directly, for they will be provided with better infrastructures and, therefore, a more efficient transport network.

Development

It is under development at present. The bids awarded to Grupo Fomento in 2008 amount to 17,415 million Euros, that is to say, 20% more than in 2007, if we do not take into account the 5,503 million Euros granted in 2007 for the renewal of first-generation highways as, given the fact that this is an exceptional endowment, should not be included in the yearly comparison.

As to the investments in infrastructures for 2008, the provisional data available, leaving aside the Spanish Port System, total to 15,657 million Euros, that is, 99% of the initial budget, which means that the investments implemented in 2008 increased by 18% as compared to 2007.

Besides, the Investment Budget of Grupo Fomento for 2009, including the Spanish Port System, amounts to 19,255 million Euros, that is to say, 8.2% more than in 2008. Besides, the Special State Fund for the stimulation of economy and employment contemplates an additional endowment of 140 million Euros for small transport infrastructures.