Southwest

Congress' $101.3 billion highway bill will advance the development of Interstate 69 between the border with Mexico and Texas seaports, state officials said.

The El Paso, Texas City Council amended its debt-management policy, eliminating the $100 million limit on certificates of obligation to allow the city to issue any amount of debt.

Voters in Bentonville School District No. 6, Ark., rejected a $135.7 million general obligation bond package that would have built the district's second high school.

The Little Rock, Ark. Board of Directors gave tentative approval last week to a September election asking voters to extend a property tax that would support general obligation bonds.

The University of Arkansas System last week asked for proposals for a design team and construction manager for three athletic facilities that will be financed in part with bond proceeds.

Glendale, Ariz. City Council last week approved an increase in the city's secondary property tax.

Abstract Arizona's economy in April hit its highest level since December 2008, with activity outpacing the nation, according to a report last week from Comerica Bank.

Construction of the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum in Oklahoma City was halted July 1 when money for the project ran out.

Standard & Poor's downgraded the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts Foundation one notch to the lowest investment-grade rating of BBB-minus, citing ongoing budget shortfalls and management problems.

The Texas Charter School Association filed a lawsuit June 26 contending that the state formula for funding public education violates the Texas Constitution.