Boston- Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy and Congressman Edward Markey today announced that the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority (MWRTA) has been awarded a $703,795 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The funding will allow MWRTA to purchase vehicles and equipment and upgrade passenger shelters along many of the Authority’s bus routes.

“MWRTA provides quality, affordable and environmentally responsible public transportation to some of Massachusetts’ fastest growing communities,” Senator Kerry said. “57% of the residents in the 495/MetroWest Corridor Partnership, 32 communities with a total population of more than 500,000 and a host of major national and regional employers, commute to work within the region. It took years of hard work and persistent lobbying on the part of the area’s state legislators to make MWRTA a reality and I’m thrilled that our federal delegation is able to support their longtime efforts and help ensure MWRTA’s continued success.”

“Efficient and safe public transportation is vital for the Commonwealth’s economy and environment,” said Senator Kennedy. “MWRTA provides an important service to commuters and residents west of Boston, and this federal funding is important for its continued improvement.”

"I commend the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority for their hard work in securing this funding. At a time when gas prices are nearing four dollars a gallon and the public is more concerned about fuel economy than ever before, the MWRTA provides an invaluable resource to the MetroWest community. I also applaud the Authority's use of GPS technology in its buses, which will provide the community with the ability to access the most current bus locations and route information available. The MWRTA provides an important service, and I am pleased that this federal funding has become available," said Rep. Edward J. Markey (MA-07).