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FTA
28-03
Contact: Kristi Clemens
Tel. (202) 366-4043
Tuesday, August 19, 2003
Transportation
Secretary Mineta Awards $40.7 Million in Grants to Pittsburgh, PA
U.S.
Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta announced the release of two grants
totaling $40.7 million to the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAAC) to
modernize and build extensions to its light rail transit system.
"This
grant represents the Bush Administration's commitment to transportation as a
strategic investment that strengthens the economy, protects the environment, and
maximizes the freedom of mobility for all Americans," said Secretary Mineta.
"The
Light Rail Transit System is a key component to Pittsburgh's metropolitan life,
providing transportation ease for commuters, making the sports and entertainment
industry more accessible to residents and allowing Pittsburgh's surrounding
communities to enjoy all that the City has to offer," said U.S. Senator
Rick Santorum. "With this funding, the Pittsburgh community will benefit as
these transportation projects provide more stops to the Light Rail Transit
System throughout the area."
The
first grant provides $27.8 million for the Pittsburgh Stage II Light Rail
Transit Priority Project. The
project is for the modernization of a portion of PAAC's 25-mile light rail
system that services Pittsburgh and its South Hills suburbs. The major components of this project are the rebuilding of
the former Overbrook Trolley Line, rebuilding portions of the Library Line, and
purchasing new light rail vehicles.
The
second grant provides $12.9 million for the North Shore Connector Light Rail
Transit Project. The project is an
extension of PAAC's light rail within the city to Heinz Field Football Stadium
and the Carnegie Science Center on the North Shore, and to the new David L.
Lawrence Convention Center.
"There
is no question these transit projects will provide substantial mobility,
environmental, and economic benefits to residents in and around the Pittsburgh
community," said Federal Transit Administrator Jennifer L. Dorn.
"Our partnership with the Port Authority to rehabilitate and extend
the light rail system will provide a common sense, cost-effective transit
solution."
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