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Kaptur Announces Nearly $19 Million in Federal Funds to
Support the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA)
During Coronavirus Pandemic
Last week, Congresswoman
Marcy Kaptur announced $18,870,900 for the Toledo Area
Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) as a result of the
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or CARES
Act, passed last month by Congress. Included in the
legislation was $25 billion to support transit agencies and
their workers. Transit agencies across the U.S. have all
seen a dramatic drop in revenues as social distancing has
been implemented nationally. This funding will be used to
protect the jobs of the employees of the transit agency and
fund their paychecks during this public health emergency.
Ohio will ultimately receive $474,118,324 under this
program. The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA)
serves Southeast Michigan, Lucas, and Wood Counties.
The Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) has specifically directed agencies that
they can use these dollars for emergency protective measures
to eliminate or lessen threats to public health and safety,
such as performing enhanced cleaning/sanitizing of rolling
stock, stations, bus shelters, etc.; placing hand sanitizer
dispensers in high traffic areas; and providing personal
protective equipment as appropriate.
"At a time when ridership is
down but the health risks for workers have increased, these
funds offer a critical bridge for TARTA to keep our
community connected while prioritizing public health," said
Rep. Kaptur. "We owe a deep debt of gratitude to TARTA
employees who are still on the job despite the risks to
their own safety. I will continue to fight tooth and nail in
Congress to make sure our communities in Northern Ohio
receive their fair share as our country faces its greatest
public health and economic threat in over a century."
"TARTA is very grateful for
the leadership and hard work of our Congressional delegation
in Washington, D.C.," said TARTA General Manager Kim Dunham.
"The swift passage of the CARES ACT and its immediate
availability to transit systems is unprecedented. These
funds will be used to cover COVID related operating expenses
including lost revenue, PPE equipment and other supplies to
protect our team, administrative leave for staff and
cleaning service contractors. Mass transit is defined as a
critical infrastructure sector by the Department of Homeland
Security and I commend our brave men and women on the front
lines providing service to the most vulnerable residents and
essential workers in our community. Many thanks to
Representative Kaptur and the entire Ohio delegation for
getting this legislation passed swiftly to assist transit
systems during this difficult time."
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