HONOLULU — Gov. Linda Lingle says the state has advanced $1.8 billion in capital improvement projects as part of a plan to stimulate Hawaii's economy and create jobs.

Officials said Wednesday that the state successfully opened bids for, awarded contracts for or started construction on 827 of the projects over the past 17 months.

Lingle says the state remains focused on working with the construction industry, trade unions and counties to help revitalize the economy.

She says the plan unveiled in December 2008 is a key component of moving Hawaii forward, and investing in the modernization of public infrastructure, buildings and facilities.

The state estimates the projects have generated nearly 24,000 direct and indirect jobs statewide.