July 12: Kaptur Announces Federal Award to TARTA for Solar Power Equipment

Following on the heels of last week's federal award for new vehicles for TARTA, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur today announced $1 million in federal funds for solar panels and solar equipment at the transit authority's main offices on Central Avenue.

Kaptur said the $1 million was awarded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), whose administrator, Peter M. Rogoff, visited Toledo last week to announce $3.49 million in new vehicles for TARTA's paratransit fleet.

"Toledo is increasingly recognized as the solar capital of the Midwest, so this award is particularly fitting," said Kaptur. "It will not only help TARTA harness the power of the sun, but also lower its operating costs and reduce its carbon footprint."

The funds will be used to install solar energy equipment and environmentally-friendly light fixture replacements at TARTA's administrative headquarters and bus garage. The equipment will enable TARTA to reduce long-term operating costs and lower its reliance on expensive electricity.

Kaptur also said she is pleased that TARTA and the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo will collaborate on a visible and artistic solar structure on the exterior of the maintenance facility.

Kaptur encouraged members of the public and local artists to become involved in making the appearance of the project as appealing as possible.