October 13, 2011

Rahall, Rockefeller, Manchin Announce DOT Funding for Tri-State Transit Authority

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.), along with Senators Jay Rockefeller and Joe Manchin (both D-W.Va.), Thursday announced that the Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) has been awarded a $2.6 million grant for its facility and fleet in Huntington.

“Transit is an essential part of any vibrant community’s economy, and our state’s transportation system is the lifeline for West Virginians, from our most rural communities to our urban city centers,” said Rahall, top Democrat on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “West Virginians deserve 21st Century-quality transit infrastructure they can depend on to get to work, keep business appointments, or simply to get out and enjoy the communities where they live.  I will continue to fight for federal funding to meet the growing needs of our aging transportation system to create jobs, spur economic growth, and ensure West Virginia is a good place to do business.”

“Infrastructure and public transit funding is a smart investment in the future of our state that will make traveling safer and more efficient for everyone,” said Rockefeller, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. “It’s important that the Department of Transportation made these funds available for programs that update facilities and purchase new equipment, meaning Huntington is able to provide quality, up-to-date transportation services.”

“With gas prices taking a serious toll on our families, it’s important to keep transportation options open so people can still get to work and our businesses can thrive,” Manchin said. “Investing in infrastructure projects like this helps boost the economy and rebuild America.”

“Congressman Rahall, Senator Manchin and Rockefeller have always been strong advocates in maintaining the infrastructure of public transit in West Virginia,” said Paul E. Davis, General Manager of Tri-State Transit Authority.  “The landscape of public transit is certainly brighter at the Transit Authority, thanks to all the support we receive from our elected officials in Washington, DC.  We are very grateful for all they do.”

Tri-State Transit Authority will use the funding to replace the roof on its maintenance facility and transfer center.  Additionally, they will also use the funds to purchase nine new heavy-duty buses to replace vehicles in their fleet that have met their useful life.  

The funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration’s State of Good Repair program, which provides grants for maintaining the nation’s bus and rail systems to ensure public transportation systems are providing safe and reliable service to millions of daily riders.