WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Maine is receiving $48,433,356 in funds for public transit from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The funds, which are distributed by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA), will support local public transit systems across Maine including urban and rural bus transit systems, the Downeaster, and passenger ferry services. 

Senator Collins, the Vice Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, was part of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the text of the bipartisan infrastructure law. Senators Collins and King both worked to negotiate and pass this historic legislation, which will deliver billions to Maine for investments in roads, bridges, broadband, and more.

“Public transit is indispensable to many Americans who use it to get to work, school, medical appointments, grocery stores, and pharmacies,” said Senator Collins. “This investment will help individuals reach their homes and jobs safely and more quickly, whether they are traveling by bus, train, or ferry. As a key negotiator of the bipartisan infrastructure package, I am delighted that this law is making significant investments that will help expand affordable, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation options for our communities.”      

“Public transit is an absolutely essential service for Maine communities, helping people get back and forth to work, run errands, or visit their loved ones,” said Senator King. “Improving public transit strengthens local economies, reduces emissions, and creates good-paying jobs. These funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will make much-needed upgrades to existing transit networks and support rural and underserved areas. I’m pleased to see this significant investment in Maine’s infrastructure needs and look forward to this legislation’s continued support for our state.”

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) provides financial and technical assistance to local public transit systems, including buses, subways, light rail, commuter rail, trolleys and ferries. FTA also oversees safety measures and helps develop next-generation technology research. Since 1964, FTA has partnered with state and local governments to create and enhance public transportation systems, investing more than $12 billion annually to help modernize public transportation and extend service into small cities and rural communities that previously lacked transit options.