Boyd hasn't made the "request." I haven't been involved in that so I don't know why. The fact remains that Miller has requested funding in previous years and has only been able to secure $237,500. This coming year will be a big year as there is an opportunity to request larger amounts through the Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill (previously known as Safetea-Lu). That bill only comes around every 5-6 years and is where big money can come from. It was supposed to be passed this year but was slowed down due to being an election year as it will have a big price tag. From what I can tell Miller has made two requests (one for the bridge and one for 331 widening) but Boyd hasn't. Boyd has requested money for five other transportation projects in his district. It should be reopened for new requests after the election so there will be an opportunity to get the request made.
My point is that Boyd has the opportunity to get larger amounts and more projects due to his standing in Congress. It's up to the locals to convince him it's a worthwhile project. I would like to point out that Boyd has made other requests this year on behalf of Walton County in regards to the beaches and Coastal Dune Lakes.
