Federal Funds Invest in Transit Projects in Indian Country

Press Release

U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman said he is pleased funding released today through a grant program he created will help increase transit services in Indian Country.

The Navajo Nation has been awarded a $475,000 grant to expand service to meet increasing ridership demands within the Navajo Nation; improve transportation to Flagstaff and Gallup and Farmington; and improve coordination with other transit providers.

The Pueblo of Santa Ana will receive a $194,529 grant to expand transit service to the reservation and surrounding areas including portions of Sandoval County. Currently, the pueblo provides transit services within the pueblo, connecting services to the New Mexico Rail Runner and connecting services to the villages of Rebahene, Ranchitos and Chicale. Expanded service will include additional stops at major employers, retail, financial, legal and health-care services.

The Pueblo of San Felipe was awarded a $25,000 grant to assist with developing community-wide transit goals. San Felipe Pueblo has more than 2,400 residents who are currently without transit services. The transit planning study will develop a vision for reservation-based transit services based on best practices, community needs, development goals and partnership opportunities.

"New Mexico's rural communities depend on bus and other transit services to get to where they need to be. These grants will help expand these much-needed services to better serve those who rely on it," Bingaman said.

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