FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 28, 1999

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $8 MILLION GRANT FOR CENTRAL NY REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

Funds Will Allow Centro to Purchase 42 New Buses

US Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (Centro) has received an $8,171,944 grant from the United States Department of Transportation. These funds will allow Centro to purchase 42 new compressed natural gas (CNG) transit buses.

Centro's yearly ridership is approximately twelve million. The new buses will be rotated throughout the system and will be used on a majority of Centro's routes. All buses are expected to be delivered by October, 1999.

"These new buses will improve Central New Yorkers' commutes while helping the environment," said Schumer. "I am delighted to be able to announce this grant, which will benefit all Central New York residents."

Schumer has advocated funding the CNG buses since he was first approached regarding this issue shortly following his election to the Senate. He requested money for the buses during the appropriations process.

"Syracuse desperately needs these buses to replace its aging fleet," said Schumer. "It has been my pleasure to work with the City of Syracuse and the Central New York region on this project."

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