|
 |
FTA
29-03
Contact: Kristi Clemens
Tel.: (202) 366-4043
Wednesday, August 20, 2003
U.S.
Department of Transportation Awards $2.9 Million to Georgia for Improved Public
Transportation
U.S.
Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta today announced a grant of
$2,970,945 in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds to the Georgia Regional
Transportation Authority (GRTA) for the purchase of three 40-foot compressed
natural gas expansion buses and five intercity clean diesel expansion buses for
the Regional Express Bus System. Federal Highway Administrator Mary Peters made
the announcement for the Secretary in Atlanta today.
"This
grant reflects 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
Regional Express Bus System will provide morning and afternoon bus service for
metro commuters to downtown Atlanta and link 11 of the suburban counties to
metropolitan Atlanta. A total of 58
buses will eventually be purchased for the express service project, with service
expected to begin in the spring or summer of 2004.
During
the first three years of operation, 26 routes will be implemented, and 37 routes
will be implemented by 2010. These
routes will provide fast transit connections between suburban counties and major
employment centers such as downtown and midtown Atlanta, Cumberland and the
Hartsfield-Atlanta International Airport. The
Regional Express Bus System will also provide reverse commute service from
Atlanta and Metropolitan Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) rail stations to
suburban employment centers.
FTA
Administrator Jennifer L. Dorn said, "These buses will allow even more
people to experience the many benefits of public transportation, including a
stronger economy, increased community mobility, reduced congestion and
protection of the environment."
The
federal government will provide 83 percent of the total capital cost for the
Regional Express Bus System, which is currently estimated at $31.7 million.
#
# #