(The Department of Transportation issued the following news release on August 19.)
WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta announced the release of two grants totaling $40.7 million to the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAAC) to modernize and build extensions to its light rail transit system.
“This grant represents the Bush Administration’s commitment to transportation as a strategic investment that strengthens the economy, protects the environment, and maximizes the freedom of mobility for all Americans,” said Secretary Mineta.
“The Light Rail Transit System is a key component to Pittsburgh’s metropolitan life, providing transportation ease for commuters, making the sports and entertainment industry more accessible to residents and allowing Pittsburgh’s surrounding communities to enjoy all that the City has to offer,” said U.S. Senator Rick Santorum. “With this funding, the Pittsburgh community will benefit as these transportation projects provide more stops to the Light Rail Transit System throughout the area.”
The first grant provides $27.8 million for the Pittsburgh Stage II Light Rail Transit Priority Project. The project is for the modernization of a portion of PAAC’s 25-mile light rail system that services Pittsburgh and its South Hills suburbs. The major components of this project are the rebuilding of the former Overbrook Trolley Line, rebuilding portions of the Library Line, and purchasing new light rail vehicles.
The second grant provides $12.9 million for the North Shore Connector Light Rail Transit Project. The project is an extension of PAAC’s light rail within the city to Heinz Field Football Stadium and the Carnegie Science Center on the North Shore, and to the new David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
“There is no question these transit projects will provide substantial mobility, environmental, and economic benefits to residents in and around the Pittsburgh community,” said Federal Transit Administrator Jennifer L. Dorn. “Our partnership with the Port Authority to rehabilitate and extend the light rail system will provide a common sense, cost-effective transit solution.”