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Transit Advocates Praise Signing

Public transit advocates are also welcoming passage of SAFETEA-LU, which includes $52.6 billion for public transportation. "President Bush's signing of the transportation bill, SAFETEA-LU, is an historic moment that will make a positive difference for all Americans," said William W. Millar, president of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).

"Public demand for transit is on the rise and this new multi-year federal legislation will give a much needed boost to meet the needs of a growing public transportation system," said Millar. "Last year there were 9.6 billion trips on public transportation and since 1995 public transportation use has grown by 23 percent."

"This significant increase in transit investment by the federal government is recognition of the importance of public transportation to our communities, whether urban, suburban or rural," said Millar.

"APTA is also pleased that Congress and President Bush guaranteed the transit money," added Millar. "This means that transit agencies across the country will be able to make long-term transportation plans and better serve their riders and communities."

The legislation provides $45.313 billion in guaranteed mass transit obligations from FY 2005-2009.

Among the projects included in the bill is $432 million for the Los Angeles County Transportation Authority's transit-rail projects, including $400 million for the extension of the Metro-Gold Line to East Los Angeles. The Transbay Joint Powers Authority is slated to receive $56.2 million for the construction of a terminal in San Francisco's business district and high-speed rail and bus service feeders to provide pedestrian connections to the Bay Area Rapid Transit Service.

The Dallas Area Rapid Transit system will receive $260 million for its 35-mile Northwest/Southeast light-rail extension and the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County will net $245 million to help pay the way for a light-rail line, the newsletter reported.