The Fiscal Year 2015 budget released this week by President Obama includes $2.5 billion to advance construction or completion of 26 rail, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), and streetcar projects in 16 states. These projects, competitively funded through the FTA Capital Investment Grant Program, will create or sustain thousands of good construction-related jobs while also providing expanded transportation choices and job access in their communities.

“President Obama has laid out a bold vision for investing in 21st-century transportation infrastructure that removes barriers to success for millions of Americans while strengthening our nation’s economy today and in the future,” said DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx. “We are committed to ensuring that every American has access to the ladders of opportunity that lead to success—and access to public transportation is essential to making that happen.”

The budget includes funding recommendations for eight completely new projects and the completion of federal full funding commitments for 10 existing projects.

“Transit ridership across the United States is at its highest level in five decades, thanks in part to FTA’s successful partnerships with communities committed to expanding local transportation choices that help to revitalize neighborhoods, reduce congestion, and connect residents with jobs, education, health care, and other vital services,” said FTA Deputy Administrator Therese McMillan.

FTA’s Annual Report on Funding Recommendations for the FY2015 Capital Investment Grant Program, including links to individual project profiles, is available here.