WASHINGTON D.C. [11/27/2019]–U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (D-Minn.), along with Representative Collin Peterson (D-MN-07), announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians a grant of $211,944 for transportation infrastructure improvements.
The grant will help Red Lake Nation Public Transit purchase new buses and equipment, allowing it to accommodate ridership demand. Red Lake Nation Public Transit provides bus services on the reservation.
“Investments in transportation serve as a down payment on the long-term economic well-being of our tribal communities and our state,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “By investing in buses and bus facilities for the Red Lake Band we are making an important investment in the economy of the region.”
“Investments in strong public transit systems are an essential part of helping communities function and thrive,” said Sen. Smith, a member of both the Senate Indian Affairs and Banking Committees. “Buses help folks get to work, veterans travel to doctor appointments, and young people go to after-school extracurricular activities. I’m glad the Department of Transportation is helping boost Red Lake Nation Public Transit’s bus fleet.
“The Red Lake Public Transit provides a vital service for residents and businesses,” said Rep. Collin Peterson. “I continue to support efforts to improve access to public transportation. This grant will help ensure service for riders of all ages for all purposes.”
The purpose of the Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program is to assist in the financing of buses and bus facilities capital projects, including replacing, rehabilitating, purchasing or leasing buses or related equipment, and rehabilitating, purchasing, constructing or leasing bus-related facilities.
Learn more here.