Congressman Garamendi Applauds $100 Million Transportation Department Grant for U.S. Made CalTrans Rail

WALNUT CREEK, CA – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Walnut Creek, CA) enthusiastically welcomes a $100 million grant announced today from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) to purchase domestically manufactured rail passenger cars and locomotives for the Pacific Surfliner and San Joaquin Amtrak corridors.

"This Transportation Department grant to CalTrans is a gift that will keep on giving,” said Congressman John Garamendi. "Transportation Secretary LaHood and Federal Railroad Administrator Szabo are wisely harnessing grant money, so that we Make It In America and create jobs now. Also, by connecting people and markets, these expanded rail lines will provide a boost to California's economy."

According to the Congressional Budget office, every $1 invested in infrastructure adds $1.57 to the economy.

Congressman Garamendi continued, "By facilitating more riders to take the Pacific Surfliner and San Joaquin corridors, we will relieve congestion on highways and curb our contribution to climate change. In Congress, I will continue to promote a Make It In America agenda for jobs, improved transportation for California, and a transition towards clean energy."

During the 111th Congress, Congressman Garamendi was the only Northern California Member on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. While the Committee no longer has a Representative from Northern California, the Congressman continues to advocates for the region's transportation needs. Congressman Garamendi authored The Airports, Highways, High-Speed Rail, Trains and Transit: Make It In America Act (H.R. 613), which creates American jobs by setting stronger standards for goods and equipment purchased with federal dollars for infrastructure projects.