U.S. Sen. Leahy: Vermont to recieve $1.5 million for public transportation

U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Middlesex) announced this afternoon that Vermont will benefit from a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for new buses and public transportation maintenance equipment.

Leahy, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations committee, worked with former U.S. Sen. Jim Jeffords (I-Shrewsbury) to secure the funds in earlier transportation bills.

"With spiking gas prices, more Vermonters are leaving their cars behind, and even more people want to if public transit is available," Leahy said in a statement this afternoon. "These grants are a timely and useful upgrade in Vermonters' access to other transportation options. These funds will help these communities handle the new ridership demands that they are trying to meet."

The senator's announcement reflects actions at the state and national levels to help Vermonters reduce the rising costs of fuel, especially in anticipation of the cold winter months.

A total of 13 buses will be donated to various counties around the state.