Rep. Doris Matsui Announces Release of Nearly $23 Million for Sacramento Public Transit
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, July 27, 2009
CONTACT: Mara Lee
(202) 225-7163
Rep. Doris Matsui Announces Release of Nearly $23 Million for Sacramento Public Transit
Sacramento Receives Significant Portion of Federal Transit Funding
"The federal dollars being released through the economic recovery package for Sacramento transportation projects are a smart and responsible investment in our community," stated Congresswoman Matsui.
"The approval of almost $23 million from the Department of Transportation for public transit projects in the Sacramento region could not have come at a better time," said Mike Wiley, General Manager/CEO of RT. "State transit funding has been significantly cut and the recession has dwindled regional tax revenue dedicated to public transportation. RT's portion of this funding will be utilized for ADA operations, preventative maintenance and the retrofit of light rail vehicles. RT is also pleased in our collaborative role with other Greater Sacramento area transit providers to secure funding. We are extremely thankful to have Congresswoman Matsui's vision and support in securing federal funding for public transit that improves our community through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act."
"In addition to serving the community as a whole, several of the purchases to be made with these funds will help local disabled individuals and seniors travel around the Sacramento area," Matsui said. "Through these public transit options, we can ensure that every individual can fully contribute to our workforce and community. At times, many of us have taken such simple tasks as commuting to work for granted. I am happy to see that Sacramento's transit system will continue to be able to provide aid to all of its citizens, and that the federal government is able to accommodate all American's mobility needs."
"Today's announcement that Paratransit, Inc. will receive critically needed funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for our top two projects is wonderful news," said Linda Deavens, Chief Executive Officer of Paratransit. "These funds will help improve access to essential transportation services for people with disabilities and the growing senior population in Sacramento County. Especially important to Paratransit is the fact these projects will create jobs and help stimulate the recovery of our local and national economy."
"Paratransit is grateful to our community partners, our local planning agency, and to Congresswoman Doris Matsui and her staff for recognizing how these projects will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our passengers," Deavens continued. "Congresswoman Matsui has consistently sought input within her district on the issues facing Paratransit and has searched for creative and sustainable solutions to the challenges we face. This news is a win-win for everyone and advances Paratransit's goal of creating independence through smart transit."
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