|
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Lois Capps today secured $2.49 million in funding for critical transportation projects in Santa Barbara County when the Transportation Appropriations Conference Report was passed in the House.
“This is great news for people on the Central Coast,” said Capps. “This much-needed transportation funding will move Santa Barbara County into the next millennium with the best, most effective transportation available.”
Capps successfully secured $2.25 million for the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) to help complete its construction of a consolidated bus facility and state-of-the-art rapid changing system for its battery-powered electric buses. In March, Capps wrote Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Ranking Member Martin Sabo (D-MN) urging federal assistance for the MTD project.
“Santa Barbara is on the cutting edge of an innovative transportation revolution,” said Capps. “Our electric bus system is a world leader in clean, alternative forms of transit. These battery powered buses help improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in our community.”
In addition, Capps secured $240,000 in federal funding to aid the Santa Maria Organization of Transportation Helpers, Inc. (SMOOTH) in obtaining buses for seniors and the disabled. Capps wrote the Transportation Subcommittee Chairman and Ranking Member in April to request this funding, which will enable SMOOTH to purchase new 21 passenger, wheelchair life equipped mini buses.
“Because of this crucial assistance, many seniors and disabled persons will no longer be geographically isolated from their communities,” said Capps. “SMOOTH provides a vital service to an important segment of our population and I’m pleased that with this funding, more will be served.”
The Transportation Appropriations Conference Report will now be considered by the Senate. It is expected to pass in the Senate and be signed into law by the President.
###
Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.
|
