U.S. Department of Transportation Awards $19.3 Million to Wisconsin for Transit

Federal Transit Administration
January 18, 2001

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, January 18, 2001
Contact: Karen Clarke
Telephone: (202) 366-0787
FTA 02-01

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Rodney E. Slater today announced a grant of $19.3 million in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for statewide transit improvements.

"Investing in public transit projects is key to creating more livable communities and is vital as we move our nation into the new century and the new millennium," said Secretary Slater. "Safe, efficient and reliable transportation improves the quality of life for all people by encouraging economic development and making community resources more accessible."

Funds from the grant will aid in the purchase of buses, trucks, vans and cars to replace aging vehicles; computers, maintenance and other equipment and supplies; and support the construction, maintenance and repair of transit garages. The grant will support projects in Appleton, Beloit, Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, Green Bay, Janesville, Kenosha, La Crosse, Madison, Onalaska, Oshkosh, Racine, Sheboygan, Waukesha City and Wausau.

The 2001 Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act provides a record $58.5 billion for transportation programs in America. The funding and other provisions it contains will help the country meet the transportation needs of the 21st century by continuing to provide a safe, sustainable system of transportation that safeguards the environment and supports economic growth.