Thursday, December 15, 2011
CINCINNATI (AP) — More than $23 million in federal funds are coming for public transportation projects in Cleveland and Cincinnati.
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood had a news conference today in Cincinnati to make the announcement of the grants. Transportation officials say there will be $12.5 million for the Mayfield Road transit station in Cleveland and $10.9 million for Cincinnati’s streetcar.
Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory and other supporters say the streetcar project will spur downtown development. The city has $95 million in funding before the new grant but is seeking more money to expand route construction.
Voters in November rejected an issue aimed at halting streetcar construction. Opponents of the streetcar say it’s wasteful and will accomplish little.
Meanwhile, Gov. John Kasich plans an economic development announcement at a company just east of Cincinnati.