Those involved called the project a cooperative effort, and even the weather pitched in.

Plans called for at least half the project to be finished by 1988, with the marketplace to be completed before 1990.

The two sides are even battling over what to call the project.

President Bush has promised $2 million in federal money for its planning, calling the project "a high priority."

Some critics, however, have called the whole project a folly.

He called the project "our White House and the essential ingredient to allow that to happen."

But last week a state official, who spoke on the condition that his name not be used, called the interim project "a rush to sand."

The "Federal Express of roads," a company executive called the project.

This is the substance of what is often called 'the European project'.

The Pergau dam has been called "the most controversial project in the history of British aid".