U.S. Department of Transportation Invests $7 Million for Bus System Improvements in Nevada

Washoe County commuters who use the Citifare system will have two new transit centers, thanks to a more than $7 million federal grant, Federal Transit Administrator Jennifer L. Dorn announced today.

“Good transit is a key ingredient for creating lasting, urban communities,” Administrator Dorn said during a preview of designs for the new stations. “Today, Reno is better positioned to take advantage of Nevada’s expanding economy because its transit system can move more people to work, stores and services than ever before.”

The new transit centers, which are being developed in a park-like “urban oasis” setting that incorporates public art, will also feature many passenger amenities to improve the transit experience, including easier boarding, climate-controlled waiting areas, automated ticketing machines and improved restroom facilities.

With existing bus transfer facilities in downtown Reno and Sparks currently at or near their commuter capacity, these new facilities will meet the growing need for the increased number of commuters. Congressman James Gibbons (NV-2nd) was also on hand for the unveiling and a briefing on the project by Gregory H. Krause, Executive Director of the Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County.

“As more people move to Northern Nevada, our roads and transportation infrastructure must be upgraded to ensure safety and meet a higher demand,” said Congressman Gibbons. “I am pleased that the U.S. Department of Transportation understands the transit challenges facing growing communities like Reno.  I am glad to see that the new intermodal transit center in Reno, along with the center in Sparks, will soon become a reality, providing an affordable transportation option for thousands of citizens and reducing congestion on our roadways.”

When the terminals are completed in 2007, along with other operational improvements, ridership on the Citifare is expected to exceed 10,000 daily riders, a 115 percent increase over the ridership on the current bus system.