The bad economy and a political change in Indiana could mean a less bumpy ride for truckdrivers who regularly cross the Hoosier state.

Indiana's new speaker of the House says the state should look at using highway construction projects to build itself out of the current recession, The Louisville, KY, Courier-Journal reported Wednesday. B. Patrick Bauer told fellow lawmakers the projects, which would be paid for by new bonds, would provide jobs, revitalize the state's economy and aid state-government finances. The report did not spell out how the bonds would be paid for.

The state is studying a number of highway projects, including the extension of I-69 south from Indianapolis. And Indiana already is scheduled to issue $330 million in highway bonds using 1 cent of the recent 3-cent hike in fuel taxes. Bauer reportedly said he hoped that money was put to use right away.