Nevada's RTC opens facility, launches service

[IMAGE]DSCN0175-2.jpg[/IMAGE]On Monday, the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) celebrated the completion of the Westcliff Transit Center and Park & Ride facility.

The new facility features more than 140 parking spaces, eight bus bays, and a 1,600 square-foot, climate-controlled transit center for passengers awaiting vehicles. Parking at the facility is free for transit riders and carpool partners.

The facility was built for approximately $4.7 million, with the vast majority funded through federal grants. It is estimated that the project helped to create or sustain nearly 200 jobs.

The facility also serves as the starting point for the RTC's newest transit option, the Westcliff Airport Express, which debuted on Dec. 12, 2010.

Designed with commuters in mind, the Westcliff Airport Express will provide limited stop transit service that will depart from the transit center to provide a fast and convenient one-seat ride to Downtown Las Vegas, the Strip and McCarran International Airport.

"Our Board of Commissioners has directed us to provide these types of transit lines, which are faster and make transit a more viable transportation option for so many in the valley," explained RTC GM Jacob Snow. "Similar lines, such as our Centennial Express route, have been very well received and we're hopeful that the Westcliff Airport Express will enjoy similar popularity."