Press Releases
Ozark Regional Transit to Receive $4.25 Million for COVD-19 Relief
Washington,
April 24, 2020
Washington, DC—April 24, 2020….Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) and U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) today announced that Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) will receive $4,252,470 from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The critical funds, which were appropriated through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, will support ORT’s operations and preventative maintenance efforts, including the cleaning and sanitation of buses and transit facilities, in the wake of COVID-19. Congressman Womack said, “The services Ozark Regional Transit provide are important to Arkansans and our community. These emergency funds will support ORT’s operations during this crisis and help ensure the safety of both staff and riders. I thank the FTA for quickly awarding this funding to assist our local public transportation system.” Senator Boozman said, “This funding will allow ORT to continue providing vital transportation services while safeguarding drivers and passengers.” Joel Gardner, Executive Director for ORT, said, “From reduced ridership to the additional costs associated with modified operations and increased sanitization efforts, we are feeling the unprecedented impacts of this pandemic on all levels. These funds will help ORT bridge the losses we are currently experiencing and allow us to navigate the many challenges that still lie ahead. We are extremely grateful to Rep. Womack, Sen. Boozman, and the Arkansas delegation for their continued support.”
The CARES Act—which recently became law with the support of the Arkansas delegation—includes a total of $25 billion in federal funding allocations through the FTA to help the nation’s public transportation systems respond to challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. Womack and Boozman have continually fought for federal investments that strengthen vital transportation systems and infrastructure. Their joint advocacy has helped secure previous federal awards to support ORT, including funds for fleet replacement and the development of a new administration and operations center.
Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas’s Third Congressional District since 2011. He serves as the Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Budget and is a member of the House Appropriations defense and transportation, housing and urban development subcommittees. ### |