$1.8 Million for Local Transportation in Bill Passed By Congress Last Week

$1.8 million FOR LOCAL TRANSPORTATION IN BILL PASSED BY CONGRESS LAST WEEK

Washington, D.C. - Last Friday, Congressman Sam Farr (CA-17) joined his colleagues in passing the bill to fund the Department of Transportation and other agencies for FY 2006. Farr secured $1.8 million in funding specifically for local transportation initiatives.

"The budget fight has been particularly fierce this year, but I was pleased to see Congress come together and support this bill almost unanimously. The funding in this bill will help keep the ball rolling on local transportation priorities in addition to the funds I integrated into the federal government's long-term transportation plan, TEA-LU, earlier this year," said Farr.

Highway 156, Monterey County: $500,000
This funding will contribute to the planning and design for widening Highway 156 from two to four lanes between Castroville and US 101. Highway 156 is the main corridor connecting U.S. 101 with the Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1) and is main access route for tourists to the Monterey Peninsula.

Santa Cruz Pacific Street Station: $400,000
This funding will contribute to the re-design and construction of the main multi-modal transit station in Santa Cruz. The Pacific Station serves both Santa Cruz Transit and Greyhound buses. Future plans for this site also include development of a commercial plaza, affordable housing and child care facilities.

Monterey-Salinas Transit: $400,000
This funding will help Monterey-Salinas Transit continue their new bus purchase program so they can maintain existing transit services to the community, serve the redeveloped Fort Ord area, and meet mandated improvements in engine emissions.

Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail: $500,000
This funding will help purchase right-of-ways to connect segments of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail. When completely linked, the 50-mile long route will enable visitors to explore and enjoy the coastline of Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties, while respecting residential, agricultural, and environmentally sensitive surroundings along the way. The completed trail will provide unparalleled opportunities for both locals and tourists to view and learn about the communities surrounding the Monterey Bay.

http://www.farr.house.gov/issues2.cfm?id=11399