Examines the uses and planning by selected states and localities for funds made available by the Amer. Recovery and Reinvest. Act of 2009. Funds made available under the Recovery Act are being distributed to states, localities, and other entities and individuals through a combination of grants and direct assistance. The purposes of the Recovery Act are to: (1) preserve and create jobs and promote economic recovery; (2) assist those most impacted by the recession; (3) provide investments needed to increase economic efficiency by spurring technological advances in science and health; (4) invest in transport., environ. protection, and other infrastructure that will provide long-term economic benefits; and (5) stabilize state and local gov¿t. budgets. Illus.