U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx recently emphasized that President Obama’s fiscal 2017 budget plan includes funds for completing or constructing transportation projects in 18 states.
The $3.5 billion transportation budget would pay for 31 mass-transit bus, rail and streetcar projects nationwide. As part of the Capital Investment Grant (CIG) Program of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), the funds could generate countless jobs and improve local communities by providing more transportation options.
“Since 2009, the Obama administration has funded nearly 100 new and expanded mass-transit projects in numerous cities and metropolitan areas across the country,” Foxx said. “These projects transform communities, improving mobility and access to jobs, education and other important opportunities for millions of people. Public transit is an important ally in the effort to ensure that hard-working Americans are offered a chance to succeed in the 21st century economy.”
The budget has 15 first-time funding recommendations, such as the Downtown Riverfront Streetcar Project in California, the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit Project in Indiana, and the Red and Purple Line Modernization Project Phase One in Illinois.
“FTA is proud to partner with communities across the country to bring more transportation options to residents and help accommodate our nation’s growing population,” FTA acting Administrator Therese McMillan said. “These investments in public transportation will improve the mobility and quality of life for thousands of residents, provide an alternative to traffic congestion and spur more economically vibrant communities.”
