Washington, D.C. -  U.S. Rep. Timothy V. Johnson today announced the release of $973,372 from the Federal Transportation Administration for the restoration of the Mattoon Depot.

"Finally, we are able to see the fulfillment of a promise made to Mattoon three years ago when this project was first approved in the Transportation Equity Act," Rep. Johnson said. "This is long overdue but the good news is that it’s here and work can begin, hopefully this fall.

"This historic train depot in the heart of Mattoon desperately needs renovation, elevators, accessibility and the ability to serve the traveling public that continues to demand greater access to public transportation," Rep. Johnson said.

The Mattoon depot is an active Amtrak station serving six trains a day and some 30,000 passengers and requires updating to provide a safe harbor for Amtrak trains and buses as well as serve as a link to our transportation history.

The grant announcement comes on the heels of House passage last month of legislation merging the Amtrak reauthorization bill with the Federal Railroad Safety Improvement Act. The legislation provides for the first steps toward creation of high-speed passenger rail service.

"Improving our rail system is essential in this economy," Rep. Johnson said. "With high gas prices, Amtrak use is already up dramatically. There’s no question that it is in the public’s best interest to provide economical, environmentally friendly alternatives that this legislation will allow."

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