The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) today announced a $2.4 million grant to Coconino County for new buses and a transit facility in Flagstaff, Arizona. The federal investment will improve bus travel and service for residents by relieving overcrowded conditions at the current facility, according to the announcement.

“This investment will help rapidly growing Coconino County to keep pace with its infrastructure needs ,” said FTA Administrator Jennifer L. Dorn. “The Bush Administration is committed to helping communities meet diverse transportation needs in this rapidly growing economy.”

Located on a three-acre site on Route 66 in Flagstaff the new transit facility will house administrative activities, daily operations, as well as storage and maintenance needs. The facility will have the capacity to service 16-24 transit buses and 10-15 paratransit vans.  It also will be located closer to routes, reducing costs for transit service and improving service to citizens. The facility will be operational in December 2005.

Coconino County also will purchase four low-floor buses and three vans with the grant.  The vehicles will increase the current fleet of eleven by over 60 percent and ease congestion and increase mobility by providing residents and commuters with more transportation alternatives, Dorn said.

The funds announced today are part of the FTA’s capital investment program that provides financial assistance for transit agencies to purchase new vehicles and construct new facilities.  Funds are allocated on a discretionary basis.

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Contact: Melissa Sabatine
Telephone: (202) 366-4043