BOSTON - Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, along with Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, today announced that the Lowell Regional Transit Authority would receive $1,117,360 for new buses to be used in Lowell, Billerica, Chelmsford, Dracut, Tewksbury and Tyngsboro.

"In a time of skyrocketing energy costs, making public transportation work better is relief for commuters getting walloped at the gas pump," said Senator Kerry. "New buses in cities and towns across the Merrimack Valley will provide easier, cleaner, and more cost effective travel for thousands of Massachusetts commuters."

Kennedy spokeswoman Melissa Wagoner said, "In today's economy, safe and efficient public transportation is more important than ever, and this federal funding is a boost for commuters in the Merrimack Valley."

"Thousands of greater Lowell residents rely on public transportation to get to and from work, school, health appointments, and many other destinations in our communities," said Congresswoman Niki Tsongas. "It is particularly important to the elderly and the disabled in our region. With gas prices at record levels, it is critical that we invest in our public transportation infrastructure so that reliable transportation services are readily available to our region's residents."

The funding comes as part of the Department of Transportation's Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century.

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