The state Transportation Department is making $40 million available to fix potholes in roads ravaged by the harsh winter.

Transportation Secretary Richard Davey says cities and towns will be able to apply for a cut of the Pothole and Winter Recovery Program starting Wednesday.

He says roads are in worse shape after last winter than after a ``normal winter.''

Davey tells The Boston Globe that three-quarters of the money will be available for cities and towns, while one-quarter is being set aside for state roads. The City of New Bedford is eligible for $318,000 in funding, Dartmouth $177,000 and Fairhaven $77,000.

The state will determine funding levels for municipalities based on population and miles of roadway.

The money can also be used for repaving projects, and to fix signs and guard rails.

All projects must be completed by September or the money must be returned. {Associated Prress)

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