Peter M. Rogoff, administrator of the Federal Transit Administration, presided over the official opening of the extension of Hillsborough Area Regional Transit's (HART) TECO Line Streetcar System in Tampa, FL. The $5.3 million extension--including $1 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds-covers one-third of a mile, connecting the Tampa Convention Center to the central business district.

"Tampa and Hillsborough County are unique because you're still growing," Rogoff said in his keynote address. "Even during the economic downturn, transit ridership in Hillsborough County is still growing. It's an example of how we can work together to meet the needs of people who are going to work, school, and entertainment in this area."

He added that the investment in the streetcar will continue to produce new jobs along the route, pointing to "an estimated $1.2 billion in investment along the line to date, which means jobs not only on the line itself, but in every hotel, restaurant, and business along the way."

Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood also noted the opening of the streetcar line extension on his "Fast Lane" blog. "From condominiums to hotels to entertainment centers, the TECO Streetcar Line has generated more than $1 billion in economic investment. The Recovery Act is working for the City of Tampa. By extending the TECO Streetcar Line, DOT is helping to ensure Tampa's sustained economic vitality."