U.S. Secretary of Transportation Rodney E. Slater Announces Transit Grants for Westchester County, New York

Topics:  Rodney E. Slater

U.S. Department of Transportation
October 2, 2000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, October 2, 2000
Contact: Bill Adams
Tel.: (202) 366-5580
DOT 187-00

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Rodney E. Slater today announced an $11.2 million grant for transit improvements in Westchester County.

"This Administration is committed to making America’s communities more livable by easing traffic congestion, preserving green space, and encouraging smart growth strategies," said President Clinton. "In partnership with the people of Westchester County, we can help protect the region’s environment while growing its economy."

"President Clinton and Vice President Gore are committed to transportation safety and a strong economy," said Secretary Slater. "These funds will contribute to safe, efficient transportation that will provide better access to jobs, services and other opportunities."

The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), signed by President Clinton two years ago, gives communities unprecedented new opportunities to invest in mass transit and reduce traffic congestion and clean up the environment. The Clinton-Gore administration has proposed $6.3 billion for FY 2001, the single highest investment in public transit in history, to help communities develop alternatives to building more clogged highways.

The $11,258,721 grant to the Westchester Department of Transportation is for the purchase of six articulated buses, nine 30 foot replacement buses, four alternative fuel 40-foot buses and approximately 61 replacement bus fareboxes.

The funds come from the department’s Federal Transit Administration.