RTC of Southern Nevada to receive $5 million for improvements

June 6, 2008

Washington, D.C. – As demand for mass transit increases while gas prices continue to climb, the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Southern Nevada will receive $5 million in bus funding from the Department of Transportation, Nevada Senators Harry Reid and John Ensign announced today.

The RTC will use the money to finance new buses and bus facilities. Citizens Area Transit (CAT) and other RTC services provide a viable economic alternative to driving and help the environment by taking cars off busy southern Nevada roads.

“The need for practical mass transit in southern Nevada is clear, and this funding will help the RTC provide a good option,” Reid said. “Riding the bus saves money and protects our environment by reducing pollution in our air. I will continue working to ensure the RTC has all it needs to reduce congestion on our roadways and provide a safe and convenient commute for everyone.”

“In these hard economic times, with gas prices continuing to soar to record highs, I am encouraged that the funds secured through this grant will make mass transit a more likely possibility,” Ensign said.  “Increasing the circulation of buses throughout Southern Nevada will provide an alternate mode of transportation for many Nevadans trying to afford gas and will reduce the amount of air pollution in our area.”

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