By Philip Newman
The U.S. Department of Transportation has designated nearly $113 million for the MTA, which will use it for new buses, the upgrading of bus depots and other facilities and a command facility.
The money for New York City’s transit system is part of $928.5 million set aside for more than 300 public transit projects throughout the United States.
“This is welcome new funding and is a much needed investment that will go a long way toward updating our equipment and bus fleet,” said Kevin Ortiz, a Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman. “It will help improve service and reliability for our customers.”
The MTA plans to use the federal money for 50 low-floor diesel buses, 72 articulated diesel buses, the upgrading of four bus depots, construction of a command center and new radio equipment.
The new buses will replace many of the older buses in the MTA’s citywide system, particularly in the outer boroughs such as Queens.
“These grant funds will make sure that bus service in our communities remains reliable and desirable while putting thousands of Americans to work at the same time,” said Peter Rogoff, the federal transportation administrator.
Reach contributing writer Philip Newman by e-mail at timesledgernews@cnglocal.com or phone at 718-260-4536.
