WRTA wants 10 hybrid buses at $500,000 each

YOUNGSTOWN — The Western Reserve Transit Authority is seeking $7 million from the federal stimulus package for gas/electric hybrid vehicles.

That includes 10 hybrid buses at a cost of $500,000 each. WRTA also wants $2 million for 30 other smaller hybrid vehicles.

The WRTA requests are among about 390 proposals from Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties submitted to the state to receive federal economic stimulus money.

The requests from the Mahoning Valley exceed $1.4 billion.

The projects are on an Ohio Web site, www.recovery.ohio.gov/more, which lists proposals that have been submitted from areas throughout the state. Projects have been outlined by state agencies, counties, cities and villages, townships, nonprofit organizations and for-profit private companies.

None have been approved for funding yet, as state officials are still considering how to dole out the federal funds.

Many of the Valley projects relate to transportation infrastructure — roads and bridges that are in need of repair. Others cover new or revamped water and sewer lines.

Also, there’s a number deal with programs or equipment needs — drug addiction services, nurses aide training, backup generators and new computer software are all on the list.

For the complete story, read Thursday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com