Yesterday US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx came to Somerville to make it official: The federal government will pledge $996 million toward construction of the Green Line Extension. The news first came early last month, but Congress had 30 days to review the project before transit officials officially signed off on the agreement. Joining Foxx on the stage were Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone, US Senator Elizabeth Warren, US Representative Michael E. Capuano joined Curtatone, Governor Deval Patrick, and other officials.
Boston Globe: “US officials pledge to fund MBTA extension”
“We’re building more than a light rail line,” Curtatone told the audience of community members and other local officials gathered at Somerville High School. “We’re building the backbone of a resilient, sustainable economy.”
Somerville Journal: “Feds sign over $1 billion for Green Line Extension through Somerville”
“You never know what people are capable of until they get a shot. And today I am proud to tell you we are giving this community a shot,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said during the press conference.
NECN: “Green Line Extension in Boston Area Gets $1B From US”
“They’ve done their job,” U.S. Representative Michael Capuano, a former Somerville mayor, said at the ceremony held at Somerville High School. “But we need to keep it going, because this federal money will not come without state matching dollars. It’s not just given to us. It has to be matched. The state has lived up to its commitment so far. We have to make sure that the commitment doesn’t somehow fall off the table.”
Associated Press: “Feds announce $996M grant for Green Line extension project”
US Dept of Transportation: “U.S. Transportation Secretary Foxx Announces $996 Million Grant Agreement to Expand Green Line Light Rail Service in Boston Area”
US Dept of Transportation blog: “MBTA Green Line Extension a glimpse of what’s needed –and possible– nationwide”
MassDOT: “Green Line Extension: Major Federal Funding Commitment”