U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx was in Los Angeles late last week to tour the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (L.A. Metro) Division 13 Bus Maintenance and Operations Facility, a new, state-of-the-art facility that will significantly improve bus service in the heart of the city.

Foxx was joined by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, L.A. Metro CEO Phillip Washington and local officials to discuss the importance of investing in public transportation projects that create ladders of opportunity for local residents. Foxx toured projects throughout the country to highlight the nation’s third annual Infrastructure Week, which brings together thousands of stakeholders across the country to highlight the importance of investing in America’s infrastructure, and to encourage Congress to act on a long-term transportation bill.

“Public transportation provides critical support to hardworking Americans trying to access jobs, medical care, education and other vital services,” said Foxx. “We must continue to invest in our nation’s transportation infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable travel options that meet the needs of today’s riders, as well as for future generations.”

L.A. Metro’s Division 13 bus facility will serve as a bus maintenance, operations and service facility in downtown Los Angeles, and will accommodate 200 CNG buses and fueling equipment. The facility, which incorporates many sustainable design features, is currently under construction and expected to open this fall.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration contributed $53.25 million in federal funding toward the $120 million total project cost.

Investments like L.A. Metro’s new bus facility are vital to meet the transportation needs of the nation and to support local economic development.