Rep. Johnson: Transit funds headed to Georgia

The money – which was released by the Federal Transit Administration – is part of what is expected to be more than $1 billion the state will receive for infrastructure under the Recovery plan, which was signed into law last month.

“I’m pleased just three weeks after I voted for the economic recovery package, we are already beginning to see funds flow directly to communities back home that are suffering under this recession,” said Johnson. “By funding these crucial infrastructure projects, we will create jobs and help the local economy grow.”

More than $110 million of the money released Thursday will be for available for MARTA and the governor for transit capital, operating assistance and transportation planning. The other $25 million is slated for rural areas or small towns and more than $7 million is available for heavy rail.

DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Burrell Ellis applauded Congressman Johnson’s support of the recovery package.

“I want to thank Hank for supporting the Reinvestment Act,” said Ellis. “A quick distribution of these funds will allow the state to expand transportation projects, help sustain MARTA and create jobs, which will have an immediate and significant impact on DeKalb County.”

Congressman Johnson will be working with local officials such as CEO Ellis to ensure that Reinvestment funds get to the Fourth District in a timely manner in order to create and save jobs as quickly as possible.