Yesterday Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger joined with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and California Department of Transportation and Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials to discuss California's infrastructure needs and to announce the awarding of $213 million in federal transit funds to help relieve congestion in some of the nation's busiest and most gridlocked freeways. ( GCG )
"Since taking office, rebuilding California and investing in our future has been one of my top priorities," Governor Schwarzenegger said. "Having the federal government as our partner on this important project is what makes today extra special. Because as we move forward-rebuilding our roads, levees, schools and other infrastructure-we are going to need Washington's help. This is just the beginning of what I hope is more federal funding for infrastructure projects coming California's way."
The $213 million awarded to California in federal transit funds is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation's Urban Partnership Agreement, aimed at reducing urban congestion. These funds will allow the L.A. Metro to make a number of upgrades, including purchasing buses and improving park and ride lots and bus access.
Urging the federal government to increase investment in infrastructure is a key part of the Governor's multi-pronged approach to rebuilding California.