FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 25, 2001

LARSON SECURES $4 MILLION FOR CONNECTICUT TRANSPORTATION PROJECT
Transportation Appropriations Bill Contains $4 million for Hartford/New Britain Busway that Larson Requested

WASHINGTON,D.C.—U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) announced this morning that the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation has allotted $4 million for property acquisition, design and construction of a Hartford/New Britain Busway. Larson had requested that funding for the project be included in H.R. 2299, the Transportation Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2002.

This morning Larson stated: “The Hartford/New Britain busway is essential to continued transportation improvements in Connecticut, which will help clear the path for an easier commute to and from work, less traffic on our roadways, as well as further economic growth and environmental protection in the state. A rapid transit system within the corridor between the two cities will have a definite positive impact on congestion in the area, and will improve the drives of those who live and work in the Greater Hartford area.

“While more funding will certainly be needed as this project move ahead, this is an excellent step forward,” said Larson.

The busway is part of a joint Bus Rapid Transit Initiative between the Connecticut Department of Transportation, the Capitol Region Council of Governments, and the Central Connecticut Regional Planning Agency. The Connecticut proposal was originally selected as one of ten nation-wide demonstration programs. The Bus Rapid Transit Initiative is intended to improve the speed, reliability and convenience of bus service, to improve mobility, and to promote a healthy environment. The busway will be an exclusive roadway through five cities and towns: New Britain, Newington, Farmington, West Hartford and Hartford, and would include approximately ten stations or stops that will service commuters. The busway would operate 18 hours a day, from approximately 6:00am Midnight. Larson had previously secured $750,000 for the busway initiative for Fiscal Year 2001.

Larson complimented Rick Porth of the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG), as well as Manchester Mayor Steve Cassano, who chairs the council, for their hard work. Larson also recognized Senators Dodd and Lieberman for their support on the issue.

-30-