Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire has approved a $1 billion stimulus plan that seeks to get construction workers back on the job.

Gregoire signed the measure Monday at Tacoma Community College. She talked about the importance of having a robust construction industry in the state and said she expects the measure will create thousands of jobs.

The package includes a geographically diverse group of projects, including economic development efforts, weatherization enhancements and environmental improvements.

The spending plans were approved with broad support in the state Legislature.

Mid-Columbia projects over $1 million include:

-- $45 million for a veterans nursing home in Walla Walla.

-- $10.4 million for a Tri-Tech skills center branch in Walla Walla.

-- $5 million for the Wine Science Center at Washington State University Tri-Cities.

-- $4.2 million for a reservoir in Kennewick.

-- $3.7 million for an "Alternative Energy and Innovation Center" in Walla Walla.

-- $2.8 million for Railex warehouse infrastructure at Wallula.

-- $2.2 million for the replacement of a railroad bridge over Columbia Park Trail in Richland.

-- $1.8 million for the Heritage industrial rail expansion in Pasco.

-- $1.5 million for an American Baptist Homes senior/disabled housing project in Richland.

-- $1.2 million for rail hub development at the Port of Pasco.