Transportation Secretary Mineta Announces $1.3 Million for Fort Smith Transit Facilities

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta today announced a $1.3 million grant to the city of Fort Smith, AR for the purchase and renovation of two buildings in the community. Located on 19 acres of land, the buildings will be used by Fort Smith Transit to support the expansion of its operations and meet growing transportation needs within the community.

“Today, the Bush Administration does its part to help the city meet its future community and transit needs, as its economy continues to grow,” said Secretary Mineta.  “This investment will improve transit service coordination and contribute to economic development.”

The $1,290,883 grant will pay for purchase of a 10,000 square-foot administration office building and a 12,000 square-foot maintenance shop. The grant also will fund renovations to both buildings including office building roof repairs, interior painting and the replacement of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning units.

“Fort Smith Transit provides an extremely important service to the community. They do such a good job that the demand for their services has increased a great deal in recent years. As a result, they are in dire need of new facilities. The funding will allow them to expand their operation to better serve the people of Forth Smith,” said U.S. Representative John Boozman.

Equipped with indoor and outdoor space for public meetings, hearings and training sessions, the facility will serve local transportation providers and residents. When completed, the renovated facility also will enable the city to work side-by-side with state agencies that provide transportation training and certifications to further the competency skills of local transportation drivers.