Metrolink, Metro and the Antelope Valley Transit Authority were among the recipients announced Tuesday of $224 million in California State Transportation Agency grants aimed at bolstering public transit to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The AVTA was awarded $24.4 million to develop a Bus Rapid Transit route in Lancaster and Palmdale, including the purchase of 29 electric buses. Metro was awarded $38.5 million for improvements to the Willowbrook rail station to improve connections between the Blue and Green lines and buses and improve station access.
Metrolink received $41.2 million to replace seven locomotives and purchase two more to increase service on the Antelope Valley and Ventura County lines.
“When public transportation is efficient, affordable and enjoyable more Californians use it and that improves quality of life for everyone,” said Brian Kelly, secretary of the California State Transportation Agency. “These grants help support nearly $720 million in transportation investments in clean, affordable and low-stress commuting and traveling options by improving the quality and reliability of public transportation choices.”
A total of 14 grants were awarded to agencies across the state.
The Orange County Transportation Authority received $2.3 million for the purchase of five compressed-natural-gas buses to create a rapid bus route linking the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center and Cal State Long Beach.
— City News Service