FTA 12-05
Contact: Paul Griffo
Thursday, March 03, 2005
Tel.: (202) 366-4043

Nevada Receives More Than $2.8 Million Grant from U.S. Department of Transportation for Two New Transit Centers

Transit riders in Washoe County are closer to improved bus service because of a $2.8 million grant to continue development of two new transit centers in Reno and Sparks, Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta announced today.

The new centers, which are being developed in a park-like “urban oasis” setting incorporating public art, will feature many passenger amenities, including automated ticketing machines, climate-controlled waiting areas, and improved restrooms.

“Today's investment brings Reno and Sparks residents one step closer to more transit options and better commutes,” said Secretary Mineta.

The new transit centers will replace existing outdated Reno and Sparks transit facilities that are at their capacity, and provide additional room for the growing ridership of Washoe County’s transit system.

When the transit centers and other improvements in bus operations are completed in 2007 and 2008, the number of daily riders is expected to exceed 10,000, a 115 percent increase over current ridership.

The grant announced today by Secretary Mineta brings the total amount of federal funds awarded for this project to $18.8 million. The entire project, which is anticipated to cost $36 million will eventually receive $28.8 million, or 80 percent, federal funding.

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