U.S. Rep. Phil Gingrey told a joint delegation from Bartow and Floyd counties Wednesday that he’s working hard to complete the 411 Connector.

“The 411 Connector is my No. 1 priority, as far as what’s on my wish list,” Gingrey told about 40 members of the Chambers of Commerce.

Gingrey said he met with Gov. Sonny Perdue two weeks ago to review the environmental impact study conducted for the Northern Arc. While the Northern Arc is “probably dead in the water,” the congressman said the impact study will be of use in pushing construction of the connector.

“I feel pretty good about the prospects for the completion of 411,” Gingrey said.

Tracy Lewis of Fast Track Delivery in Cartersville said a Memphis-to-Atlanta highway and the 411 Connector would create a corridor for economic development in Floyd and Bartow counties. It would also alleviate traffic, which has increased 70 percent in the last decade, she said.

While development is key, Lewis said Atlanta’s growth is “negatively impacting our area.”

Both counties hope to stay out of the metro Atlanta nonattainment zone – which bars road funds if the region’s air quality dips below specified levels.

Gingrey said he’d oppose the inclusion of Bartow and Floyd in the nonattainment zone and would stand with the counties on water issues. “I have not been for interbasin transfers,” the congressman said.

Gingrey updated the delegation on issues before Congress. “We’re getting more focused on the economy,” Gingrey said. “Getting people back to work is the top priority.”

State Rep. Jeff Lewis wrapped up the meeting my announcing a donation in Gingrey’s name to the Girl Scouts of America.