$8 Million in Federal Funds Will Help Develop City Passenger Rail

REDLANDS>> U.S. Representative Pete Aguilar announced July 28 that the United States Department of Transportation awarded the San Bernardino Associated Governments $8,678,312 in funding through a Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery Grant to help construct the Redlands Passenger Rail Project. Aguilar has continually supported construction of the RPRP, beginning with his time leading the countywide ballot measure as campaign manager, to his service as councilmember and mayor of Redlands serving on the SANBAG Board of Directors, and now in his role as the region’s congressman. “The Redlands Passenger Rail Project is an important investment for our community,” Aguilar said. “The RPRP will help spur economic development, ease traffic congestion and pollution and will make daily transportation for San Bernardino County families safer and more efficient. I’m glad to see this grant come through and commend SANBAG and our local leaders for their continued activism that helped make this possible.” The Redlands Passenger Rail Project is a nine-mile rail extension that offers a new commuting option while introducing an environmentally sustainable mode of transportation that creates reliable access to employment, education, recreation, cultural enrichment and health care centers. “We are thrilled that the USDOT sees the value in supporting key transportation improvements that enhance the quality of life for our residents,” said Robert Lovingood, SANBAG President and San Bernardino County Supervisor. “This new passenger rail service represents one of the solutions to the transportation challenges we face in a fast-growing region.” Redlands Mayor Paul Foster said the news is exciting for the rail project and for the City of Redlands. “Once completed the rail line will have tremendous benefits for Redlands residents, for commuters and for local businesses as customers find a quick and convenient way to travel into the city," Foster said. "As always, we appreciate Congressman Aguilar’s continued advocacy for our community.” California Assemblymember Cheryl Brown said she is pleased to congratulate SANBAG on receiving the TIGER grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide a new passenger rail service through the cities of Redlands and San Bernardino. "This project will enhance mobility, improve air quality and boost our economy by creating thousands of jobs," Brown said. "I commend Raymond Wolfe and his team for their innovative vision and commitment to advancing infrastructure improvements throughout our region.” James Ramos, Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, said it is exciting to be a part of the emergence of San Bernardino County. This grant recognizes the great work we are advancing in San Bernardino County to provide viable options that connect people to destinations within their community and across the entire Southern California region,” Ramos said.