D.C. Metro starting stimulus project work

The Washington Area Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is moving forward with spending nearly $202 million on economic stimulus projects that include fixing crumbling platforms, repairing tracks and buying new hybrid-electric buses.

Metro’s board of directors today approved a revised list of 29 projects and moving ahead with awarding nearly 100 contracts and purchases. The first purchase is expected to be made at the end of April for approximately 45 new hybrid-electric buses with a manufacturer Metro has already contracted with to make Metrobuses.

The agency previously announced $230 million in planned stimulus projects, but the list was pared down after some of the funds went to other regional transit agencies.

“No one was expecting these additional federal funds a year ago, so this is a great opportunity for Metro to make needed infrastructure improvements that were previously unfunded and at the same time help improve the region’s economy,” said Metro General Manager John Catoe.

The projects target improved passenger and maintenance facilities, safety and security, information technology, operations and equipment.

Metro has created a special Website to track stimulus projects and spending. Starting March 27, visit http://www.wmata.com/stimulus.