WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) today announced that $10,500,000 was awarded to the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority to reconstruct the University-Cedar Rapid Transit Station in Cleveland. These funds, distributed by U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) II grant program, will help to modernize one of Ohio’s largest public transportation systems. These American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds were awarded through a competitive process.

 “Cleveland commuters – cyclists, walkers, and motorists – will be able to enjoy a modern transportation infrastructure at the University-Cedar Rapid Transit Station,” Brown said. “These funds will help to enhance the quality of life for Ohioans who live and work in the area.”

 TIGER II grants are awarded to projects that contribute to the long-term economic competitiveness of the nation, improve the condition of existing transportation facilities and systems, increase energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improve the safety of U.S. transportation facilities and/or enhance the quality of living and working environments of communities through increased transportation choices and connections.

There are 59 transit systems in Ohio – a fleet that employs more than 5,200 workers. More than 4,200 of these Ohioans work in operational positions in transit systems that serve more than 200,000 people. Ohio is 12th in the nation for public transit ridership.

Brown has been a longtime advocate of public transportation. In March 2010, he joined Ohio transit workers from across the state to outline legislation that would save transit jobs, prevent fare increases, and preserve mass transit service. His legislation would give transit agencies increased flexibility to use federal funds for operating assistance as well as capital investments helping to prevent layoffs and preserve access to affordable transit service.

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