SAN BERNARDINO, CA — Rep. Pete Aguilar today lauded $13,391,560 in new federal funding he helped secure for Omnitrans. The funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) comes from the American Rescue Plan, landmark legislation that delivered more than 200 million vaccines across the country and critical resources to safely reopen schools, help small businesses stay open and funding for public safety and commuter rail and bus service. The American Rescue Plan was signed into law nearly one year ago in March 2021.

“One year later, the benefits of the American Rescue Plan are still being felt here in the Inland Empire,” Rep. Aguilar said. “I’m proud to have helped secure these vital resources for our community and I will continue to work to expand the Inland Empire’s public transit system to grow our economy, reduce road and freeway traffic and improve our air quality.”

The American Rescue Plan included $30.5 billion in federal funding to support the nation’s public transportation systems as they continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and 99 percent of this funding has been allocated. Today’s funding will help Omnitrans continue to maintain day-to-day operations, combat the spread of pathogens on transit systems and ensure critical staffing levels are met.

“Omnitrans is grateful for Congressman Aguilar’s support to secure this critical Federal Transit Administration funding made possible by the American Rescue Plan,” said Omnitrans Public Transit Agency CEO/General Manager Erin Rogers. “Enhanced onboard safety measures for customers and employees, additional resumption of service, and full agency staffing are Omnitrans’ priorities in the coming year; this funding will help the agency reach its strategic goals and provide enhanced service to our region.”

Rep. Aguilar serves as the Vice Chair of the Democratic Congress and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, the committee responsible for funding federal programs and agencies including the FTA.

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