WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) today announced that the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority will receive $2,000,000 to reconstruct the University-Cedar Rapid Transit Station.  The U.S. Department of Transportation funds were awarded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA.)

“A strong public transportation system is important to a creating a vibrant local economy. University Circle is a lively, up-and-coming neighborhood helping to contribute to the economic revitalization of Cleveland. Increased public transportation options will only further boost University Circle’s attractiveness to small business owners, young people, and homeowners,” Brown said.  “These infrastructure improvements are an investment in the future of Cuyahoga County and will enhance the services provided by the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority.”

The funds will be used to reconstruct the rail station, bus terminal, and associated roadways so that they are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. They will also support the construction of a new rail entry plaza with a heavy-duty elevator to the rehabilitated train loading platform and waiting area.  In addition, a new bus terminal will be constructed on the north side of Cedar with a pedestrian connection between the bus terminal and rail station. The roadway of Cedar will be reconstructed to facilitate the relocated bus terminal and widened sidewalks.

In October, Brown announced an additional $10.5 million in federal funds, provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for the University Circle RTA station. Those funds, awarded through the highly competitive Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) II grant program, will be used to upgrade and reconstruct the station.

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority provided 44.7 million passenger trips in 2010 and services 59 municipalities over 458 square miles.

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