Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today released a list of 110 projects totaling $1.07 billion for which the city could seek federal stimulus package support.

Tops on the list, dollar-wise, were water projects, including the need for $180 million to make changes needed to reduce the flow of sewage into the rivers. Another $252 million would go for installing new disinfection systems in the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority's plant, constructing tanks and eliminating a microfiltration plant at the Highland Park Reservoir, and replacement of old or undersized water mains.

The Department of Public Safety wants $40 million to renovate its facilities citywide. The Riverlife Task Force wants $18 million to construct walkways on the West End Bridge, plus funds to stabilize parts of the Allegheny River's banks, restore part of Point State Park, and improve trails, among other things.

Among the smaller items by dollar value are the renovation of the Beechview Senior Center, a walkway near the new Penguins arena, and a pedestrian bridge in East Liberty.

The administration estimates the projects will create 26,447 jobs, primarily construction jobs, but also permanent positions.

The latest estimates from President-elect Barack Obama's camp are that the stimulus package could reach $850 billion, though not all of that would go for public infrastructure. Though the rules aren't yet set, it's believed the emerging process will involve consideration of the readiness of the projects, and their job creation potential.

Appearing on KDKA Radio this morning, the mayor bristled at suggestions by some on council that the city has lagged behind other cities in its preparation for the stimulus package. The criticisms stemmed from the appearance on the U.S. Conference of Mayors Web site of stimulus package wants of some 400 cities -- a roster from which Pittsburgh was absent.

"We are prepared. We have been prepared. We've made every deadline. We have all of our lists. We're trying to work with private engineers" to craft detailed plans to complete projects, he said. "We are doing everything we can, and we're going above and beyond anything we've ever done in city government to be prepared."