Shovel Ready?

In discussion of a “stimulus” plan/bailout of state and local governments, a lot of has been made of funding “shovel ready” projects – thus leading to governors and mayors putting together ridiculous wish lists.

In contrast, National Taxpayers Union and Citizens Against Government Waste have compiled “Axe-ready” programs – trillions in wasteful federal spending that should be returned to taxpayers.

A related effort, GrabAShovel.com, has started, seeking to identify those absurd requests to “stimulate” the economy. See related links: The Pig Pen and The Oink Report.

Update: You can find the full list of requests by city here. And for the folks who wonder why I called it “ridiculous” answer this – $1 billion for sidewalks; 28 stadium projects, 117 beautification efforts, 20 golf courses. Any of that seem ridiculous to you?