In a DOT press release this week, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood makes a $1.58 billion commitment to fund the New Starts program.
Aiming to reduce the nation's dependency on petro, improve public transportation access, and mitigate air quality, LaHood approves funding for the 9 existing, 7 new, 9 proposed, and 2 other transit projects that will greatly expand America's network of light rail, subway, BRT, and streetcar systems.
"America’s long-term economic success requires investing now in transportation infrastructure capable of moving people and goods more safely, efficiently and quickly than ever before," LaHood asserts.
As head of the agency that oversees New Starts, Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff adds, "Our investments in expanding America’s transit networks will not only improve reliable transportation access for communities across the country, they will support construction jobs and economic development."
Full Story: U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Announces $1.58 Billion for 27 Major Transit Projects Across America