March 14, 2024
Rochester, NY: Included in the package of bills passed by Congress last week and signed into law by President Biden, is $500,000 in funding for Regional Transit Service (RTS) to improve bus stop accessibility. The appropriation was included in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development or THUD appropriations bill and supported by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Congressman Joe Morelle.
“On behalf of RTS employees and customers, I thank Majority Leader Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, and Congressman Morelle for their partnership in securing this critical funding to improve accessibility to bus stops,” said RTS CEO Miguel Velázquez. “Public transit customers who have mobility limitations or rely on mobility aids such as a wheelchair sometimes face the challenge of getting to the bus when there is no accessibility infrastructure such as cement pads or a connection from the sidewalk to the curb and bus. This funding will help us start putting that infrastructure in place to provide more equitable access to the transit system and improve the customer experience.”
U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, “I’m proud to have secured this vital funding to upgrade RTS bus stops with more equitable and barrier-free improvements so that riders can safely access the transportation they rely on to connect to their jobs, medical appointments, grocery shopping, and more. This investment will significantly enhance the safety and ease for all passengers as they begin or end their travel.”
“RTS plays a critical role in providing safe and reliable transportation to residents throughout Monroe County and surrounding areas,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “This funding will continue removing transportation barriers and providing sustainable transit for community members. I am proud to have helped secure federal funding to bridge the transportation gap and will fight to ensure that every New Yorker has access to reliable transportation options.”
“Every person deserves to have safe, affordable, and accessible transportation in their community. And thanks to the efforts of the entire team at the Regional Transit Service, we’re growing closer to making this a reality for Rochester,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “I’m proud to have helped secure this $500,000 as a part of the Community Project Funding process to improve accessibility at their bus stops, and I look forward to continuing our work together to better connect our neighborhoods and support individuals and families throughout our community.”
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