(Pittsburgh, PA) — U.S. Representatives Mike Doyle, Tim Murphy, and Jason Altmire announced today that the Port Authority of Allegheny County will receive $ 3,264,499 to purchase new buses to replace buses in its fleet that have reached the end of their useful service life.

“200,000 residents of Allegheny County ride the Port Authority’s buses every weekday,” Congressman Doyle said today.  “These buses provide important transportation services to many people who don’t own cars and would be severely disadvantaged without the Port Authority’s bus service.  The Port Authority buses also reduce traffic congestion and air pollution for the rest of us.  I’ve been a strong supporter of federal assistance to the Port Authority to help it maintain a fleet of modern, reliable, buses.” 

“This much needed federal funding will help the Port Authority provide a safer, more efficient commute for the residents of Allegheny County,” Congressman Murphy said.  “For the many people who rely on mass transit to get to and from work, sporting events, and other area activities, there will be more improved, reliable service.”

“This federal investment will help improve Allegheny County’s bus fleet and provide local residents with a safe way to travel around the region,” Congressman Altmire said. “With gas prices continuing to rise, mass transportation has become a more affordable option for people who need to get and from work and go about their daily activities. Strengthening Allegheny County’s public transportation system provides residents with a cost-effective alternative to driving and helps to reduce gridlock and pollution throughout our region.”

This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Capital Investment Program, one of two federal programs that provide local governments across the country with roughly $10 billion in support for new vehicles and facilities each year.  

The Port Authority of Allegheny County is the 14th largest public transportation system in the country.  PAT serves an average of more than 200,000 riders a day during the work week.  It operates a fleet of nearly 1,000 buses and mini-buses, as well as a light rail system (the “T”) with 83 cars, two inclines, and ACCESS – the nation’s largest paratransit program of its kind for senior citizens and people with disabilities.

“Public transit programs play an important role in facilitating the movement of people and goods around our region,” Congressman Doyle observed.  “Federal government support for local transit agencies like the Port Authority reduces congestion, improves air quality, and promotes economic growth in communities across the country.  That’s why I strongly support the federal programs that provide assistance to local governments to provide public transit.”

“Whether out of concern for the environment or one's wallet, mass transit offers a cheaper, more environmentally-friendly alternative to driving,” said Congressman Murphy.  “With energy prices continuing to rise more people are turning to mass transit. The funds will help keep the Port Authority's fleet modern and able to meet the needs of local ridership.”                     

“When businesses look for relocation sites, the quality of an area’s public transportation can figure prominently in their decision,” Altmire said. “Improving Allegheny County’s public transportation will make our area even more attractive to businesses and individuals looking for a new place to call home.”