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WASHINGTON, D.C. –
Today, Congresswoman Lois Capps secured $400,000 in federal funding for two transportation projects in Ventura County as part of the Fiscal Year 2007 Transportation, Treasury and Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives.
Capps obtained $200,000 to develop plans to expand or replace the South Coast Area Transit (SCAT) bus facility.
“This transportation project will be a tremendous asset to Ventura County,” said Capps. “The current facility was originally designed to support a smaller bus fleet and fewer passengers. As we face rapidly rising gas prices, a larger population, and increased traffic on our highways and roads, the demand for bus service in our communities has expanded exponentially. We must act now to address this demand and provide for enhanced mass transportation services in Ventura County. This funding will provide the funds to start this important modernization and enhancement project.”
"Every dollar that Congresswoman Capps brings home for South Coast Area Transit is money that I don't have to ask for from our municipal and county to pay for,” said Deborah Linehan with South Coast Area Transit. “I can stretch our local dollars. It all helps the customer. It allows us to advance projects faster. This funding will enable me to get our new bus into service sooner. Bus ridership is up and we need to be prepared to meet this demand.”
Capps also secured an additional $200,000 to replace a Fixed Route Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Transit Bus with a Fixed Route Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Bus in Oxnard.
“These new Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Buses will be a great addition for Oxnard’s Fixed Route service,” said Capps. “Hybrid buses will reduce emissions and engine noise while additionally improving acceleration and regenerative braking. The South Coast Area Transit (SCAT) was one of the first California public transit agencies to switch from diesel fuel to clean burning compressed natural gas. I am pleased to be able to help SCAT continue their leadership in providing excellent mass transportation that is also environmentally friendly.”
"Again, Congresswoman Capps is a strong advocate for the residents of the City of Oxnard,” said Oxnard Mayor Dr. Thomas E. Holden. “We are very pleased with her efforts during this critical time where there is a strong need for public transit. Especially during these times when securing funding is difficult."
“These two development projects will address critical needs for the City of Oxnard, the City of Port Hueneme, the City of Ventura and provide enormous benefit to the entire Ventura County community,” said Capps. “While this initial funding is promising, funding for projects is not final until the Senate passes its version of the bill and differences between the versions are worked out in conference. I will continue to monitor this legislation’s progress as it moves through the Senate.”
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Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.
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