Contact: Ernie Blazar 202.224.7627 Shana Stribling 202.224.0309
Wednesday, August 13, 2003

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO - Senator Kit Bond and Representative Jo Ann Emerson today announced that the Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has approved more than $400,000 in federal funds for transportation needs in Southeast Missouri.

"These dollars will make life much easier for many seniors, disabled and low-income residents in Southeast Missouri," said Bond, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. "For many of these folks this transportation is the only way to get to the doctor, a job or grocery store."

"The vehicles purchased through this federal program will benefit Missourians who rely on public transportation. This funding is integral to helping seniors, the disabled, and low-income individuals access health care and other public services in their communities," Emerson said.

Southeast Missouri Transportation Service, Inc. (SMTS) will receive $411,884 in federal funds for bus and bus facilities. SMTS will use the funds to acquire ten replacement vans and capital maintenance. Bond and Emerson secured these funds for SMTS in the fiscal year 2003 Omnibus Appropriations bill. This $400,000 in federal funds are in addition to $1.2 million Bond and Emerson secured for SMTS in the previous fiscal year for the acquisition of a new regional administration office and maintenance facility.

For 30 years, SMTS has served elderly, disabled and low-income residents in need of transportation services in Southeast Missouri. The SMTS now serves over 7,000 riders in 26 counties. The 125 buses and vans give residents access to a number of services, including dialysis, medical services, shopping, nutrition, visiting loved ones in local extended care facilities, training, employment and other personal trips.