Congresswoman Lois Capps  
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  For Immediate Release    
May 10, 2000  
     

Capps Nets Nearly $500,000 for Santa Barbara County in Transportation Subcommittee Bill

 

Bill Includes $250,000 for Critical Ellwood Bicycle Bridge Project in Goleta

     

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Lois Capps secured nearly $500,000 in funding for critical transportation projects in Santa Barbara County when the Transportation Appropriations Act was passed by the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation.

“I’m so pleased the Subcommittee has agreed to my requests for this critical transportation funding for Santa Barbara County,” said Capps.  “With the Subcommittee’s vote, we’ve past the highest hurdle, but there is still more legislative work to be done.  I’m committed to making sure this funding remains in the final budget to help complete the critical bridge project in Goleta and to increase transportation services for seniors and disabled persons in Santa Maria.”

Capps successfully fought to incorporate $250,000 in the Transportation Subcommittee bill to help fund the proposed Ellwood bicycle and pedestrian bridge over Highway 101 near Storke Road.  Supervisor Gail Marshall -- who has spearheaded the funding effort at the county level -- asked Capps to look for federal funds to contribute to the local bridge project.  After learning that federal funding was included in the bill, Marshall stated, “This bridge has always been a priority for West Goleta and I’m glad we can count on Congresswoman Capps to work to bring home federal dollars for this important local project.”

 

“There is a tremendous need for a safe passage way over Highway 101 in Goleta,” said Capps.  “The proposed bridge project will allow families to walk or bike safely over the highway, instead of using the dangerous Glenn Annie overpass.” 

 

In addition, Capps secured $240,000 in federal funding for the Santa Maria Organization of Transportation Helpers, Inc. (SMOOTH), which will enable SMOOTH to purchase three new, wheelchair equipped minibuses to enhance transportation services for seniors and disabled persons.  Capps requested the funding in a letter to the Transportation Subcommittee Chairman in March.  Last year, Capps also secured $240,000 for SMOOTH.

 

“SMOOTH provides a vital service to an important segment of our population,” said Capps.  “This funding will help more seniors and disabled persons become more independent and active in their communities.”

 

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Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.

 
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