Reps. Zoe Lofgren, Anna G. Eshoo and Mike Honda Announce $3.75 Million Grant Funding for Santa Clara County Valley Transportation Authority Bus Replacement

Washington, D.C. – Reps. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose), Anna G. Eshoo (D-Palo Alto) and Mike Honda (D-Campbell) announced today that the Santa Clara County Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) will receive $3.75 million in funding for new buses through a U.S. Department of Transportation grant. The grant, awarded competitively, will offer the VTA significant funding to replace or expand their fleet of 450 buses and vehicles throughout their 326 square mile service area.

"This is welcome news to the more than 33.1 million riders who use VTA buses each year and will benefit from the added capacity and service these new buses will bring," said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. "Specifically, this will bring new zero-emission vehicles into our community. It will mean safe, comfortable rides and greater accessibility for all of our residents and visitors."

"For 40 years, VTA buses have provided a safe, accessible, and community-focused option for millions of Santa Clara County riders," Rep. Anna G. Eshoo said. "This award will help keep VTA's transit system running smoothly and support the agency's commitment to reducing emissions and congestion for the region."

"Zero-emission vehicles are a critical part of the future of public transportation, and Silicon Valley is leading the way," said Rep. Mike Honda. "That is why I continue to push my fellow colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee to support these programs that transition our buses away from fossil fuels."

The three Representatives have been strong supporters of the infrastructure and improvement projects in Santa Clara County and the Valley. They were instrumental in securing the $900 million BART to Silicon Valley project funding announced earlier this year, and have inaugurated several recently completed highway improvements projects. The grant funding is provided through the State of Good Repair Program of the U.S. Department of Transportation, which invests in the nation's bus and rail systems to provide safe and reliable public transport service.

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