Wednesday, Aug 24 2011 3:18PM
Residents living west of the Rocky Mountains in secluded rural areas should be aided by the new bus service.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration will provide nearly $25 million to the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority in Colorado for a new bus service and bus facilities.
The service will not only relieve roadway congestion by providing thousands of workers in the region with a new work commute option, but also create new jobs and assist with transportation needs of rural residents of Western Rocky Mountain counties.
"The rugged mountain communities of Roaring Fork Valley increasingly face transportation challenges similar to those found in larger urban areas — including longer commutes," said DOT Secretary Ray LaHood. "Bringing more good transportation choices to the region means the area can continue to grow and still reduce congestion, air pollution and lessen our dependence on costly oil."
Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff stated the construction of new bus facilities should create hundreds of new jobs and provide a necessary service for rural residents. The new bus service will operate along a 40-mile stretch from Aspen to Glenwood Springs.