U.S. Department of Transportation is recommending almost $4.5 billion for new and expanded public transit services.
In March 28 news release, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the funding recommendation for seven new rail and bus rapid transit projects and eight existing projects in fiscal year 2023. These projects, along with local matching funds, would create and sustain construction and operations-related jobs, as well as help communities provide better and more frequent transit service, according to the news release.
"FTA looks forward to working with communities across the country to provide exciting new transit options," Federal Transportation Administrator Nuria Fernandez said in the release. "These investments support President Biden's commitment to combat climate change while also improving safety, advancing equity and improving quality of life for millions of Americans."
The new projects would be in California, New York, Tennessee, New York/New Jersey, Texas and Washington. The continuing projects are in California, Minnesota, New Jersey and Washington.
The funding targeted in Buttigieg's funding recommendations compete for grants through FTA's Capital Investment Grants Program and the Expedited Project Delivery Pilot Program, both of which require local matching funds. Both programs were created to support public transportation projects that start locally but require more funding to begin or continue.
DOT's aim in funding the projects is to create more sustainable jobs for operating the lines and more reliable transportation for those who live near the projects.
"Public transit creates jobs, reduces traffic and pollution and lowers the cost of living for people in the community," Buttigieg said in the news release. "With this funding made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we can help support transit projects all over the country that will improve the lives of millions of Americans."
