Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) have announced a significant funding boost for Illinois’ mass transit systems. The U.S. Department of Transportation has allocated $25,415,095 to support the Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit District (MetroLINK) and the Greater Peoria Mass Transit District.
MetroLINK will receive $10,000,000 to expand its operations and maintenance center, specifically to accommodate the transition to battery-electric buses. This expansion includes constructing areas for battery-electric storage equipped with fire and hazard mitigation systems. The aim is to enhance MetroLINK’s ability to store electric buses safely and efficiently, ensuring a smoother and safer transition to cleaner energy.
The Greater Peoria Mass Transit District is set to receive $14,415,095 to replace its diesel-engine buses with battery-electric ones. This transition is expected to lower emissions, enhance safety, and provide more reliable transportation options, particularly benefiting underserved communities in Peoria and surrounding areas.
Eric Sorensen emphasized the importance of safe and affordable public transit options for maintaining clean air and creating sustainable communities. He expressed pride in seeing substantial federal funds being directed back to local communities, improving the quality of life and promoting sustainable living.
Dick Durbin highlighted the broader impact of the funding on Illinois’ transportation infrastructure. He noted that the investment would lead to more sustainable and reliable public transportation, with the new battery-electric buses contributing to cleaner air for Illinois communities.
Tammy Duckworth underscored the health benefits of increasing the number of zero-emission and low-emission buses. She expressed pride in securing funding that supports a safer and cleaner future for Illinoisans, particularly in the Quad Cities and Peoria areas. Duckworth affirmed her commitment to working with Durbin and Sorensen to ensure that Illinois communities receive essential federal resources.
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The announced funding represents a significant step towards modernizing Illinois’ public transportation infrastructure. By transitioning to battery-electric buses, both MetroLINK and the Greater Peoria Mass Transit District are set to reduce their carbon footprints, contribute to cleaner air, and offer more reliable and safe transportation options. This investment aligns with broader goals of sustainability and environmental responsibility, marking progress toward a greener future for Illinois.
