BOSTON (AP) - A state panel has given approval to use $9 million in federal stimulus funds for a pedestrian bridge sought by the wealthy owner of the New England Patriots.

The span over Route 1 would help pedestrians cross parking lots outside Gillette Stadium and connect the Patriot Place mall with an office park being proposed by team owner Robert Kraft.

The Metropolitan Planning Organization approved it Friday by a 13-1 vote.

Critics have questioned giving the money to a billionaire, and using funds intended for shovel-ready projects on an office park that will not be immediately built.

Kraft and his wife, Myra, have recently stepped up their political donations to Gov. Deval Patrick, but the governor says the state is supporting the bridge because it will leverage job creation.