U.S. Senators Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and U.S. Representative Peter Welch (D-Vt.) hailed the White House announcement Wednesday that the City of Burlington will receive $3.15 million to enhance year-round public access to the northern section of Burlington's historic waterfront by making several roadway, parking, and pedestrian improvements to the area.

Through $2.7 million in previous federal funding secured by Leahy, Burlington has developed detailed design plans and begun construction of some elements of the project. With the new funding, Burlington will be able to promptly move forward with this key transportation and economic development project. Leahy secured the earlier funds as a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and of its transportation subcommittee.

Leahy said, "Burlington's waterfront has been transformed over the past 20 years. What once was a blighted industrial strip has blossomed into a vibrant and welcoming public space that draws people year 'round. These new improvements will continue this effort by making the area more accessible to residents and visitors alike. This project is particularly well-suited for stimulus funding because it is shovel-ready, it will put people to work quickly, it will attract new private investments, and it will create new jobs and spur new economic activity in downtown Burlington."

Sanders said, "The Burlington waterfront is one of Vermont's' most valuable resources. Improving access to the waterfront is an important step forward in improving this wonderful asset."

Welch said, "Improving Burlington's beautiful waterfront will mean good jobs for Vermonters when we need them most. This project will continue the remarkable renewal of the waterfront and ensure the city of Burlington continues to thrive."

Burlington Mayor Bob Kiss said, "I'm extremely pleased that the DOT has chosen 'Waterfront North' for funding through this extraordinarily competitive grant program. This project improves public access to the waterfront, enhances public amenities for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike, and promotes needed economic development and vitality on the north end of the waterfront. This is an investment in Burlington which will have a ripple effect economically and in the community for years to come."

Burlington is receiving the funds through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grant Program. Under last year's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Secretary of Transportation was given $1.5 billion to make grants on a competitive basis for transportation infrastructure projects that will have a significant local and regional impact.