[Press Release] : Federal transit grant earmarked for buses

[pr-l at news.gocolumbiamo.com]

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Contact: Mark Grindstaff, Public Works Department - (573)
874-7281

Federal transit grant earmarked for buses

COLUMBIA, MO (June 16, 2006) -- City officials learned Thursday that
Columbia will receive a $250,000 grant from the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA). According to Congressman Kenny Hulshof, the grant
will be used to help fund the purchase of additional paratransit vans
and additional fixed-route buses. Paratransit vans cost approximately
$52,000 each and 40-foot buses are about $345,000 each. The City Council
will determine which of these vehicles can be purchased with available
funding.

Columbia Mayor Darwin Hindman said that the city appreciates the
efforts of Congressman Hulshof and his staff in securing the funds.
"The paratransit vans will provide a much-needed service for
qualifying residents whose transportation options are limited due to
disabilities. The fixed-route buses will help riders who use public
transportation to get to and from work and other locations. The city
thanks Congressman Hulshof for his continuing work and support."

The city must provide a 20 percent match for the new FTA grant. This
funding is in addition to $826,000 that Hulshof helped the city obtain
in FY 2005. Those dollars have been used for fixed route buses,
paratransit vans, passenger shelters, security equipment and other
equipment.

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