The House Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee approved $54.8 million for the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) today for an extension of BART to the San Francisco International Airport. The 1998 Transportation Appropriations bill also contains a provision directing the Department of Transportation to sign a Full Funding Grant Agreement for the project by July 1, 1997.
Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), a Member of the House Appropriations Committee, commended subcommittee Chairman Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Ranking Member Martin Sabo (D-MN) for their leadership in making the BART project a priority. "The action by the House sends a clear message that the BART project should move forward without further delay. The BART project will improve the quality of life for the Bay Area as we move into the 21st Century." In addition the bill also includes $21.4 million for the San Jose Tasman West Light Rail (LRT).
In March of 1996, the Clinton Administration announced its intention to enter into a full funding transit agreement with BART for the extension to the airport. The House approved the awarding of the agreement in November of 1996. The Senate has withheld approval of the project to date. Today's action is an important step in settling the issue of the full funding grant agreement. This agreement is needed for BART to enter into contracts for construction. Because of the joint construction requirements with the Airport, action by July 1st is required to avoid expensive construction delays.
