The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced a $6.7 million grant for construction of a new Montaño Intermodal Center that will connect Albuquerque, N.M. residents to commuter rail service and enhanced priority bus service.

"With gasoline prices at the levels they are today, the Obama Administration is committed to providing Americans with energy efficient transportation alternatives," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "The new Montaño Intermodal Center will provide Albuquerque with greater access to affordable transportation options and create opportunities for economic development."

FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff joined Congressman Martin Heinrich and Albuquerque Mayor Richard Berry at a ceremony this week to award the $6.7 million grant to build the center.

Located in the heart of Albuquerque, the Montaño Intermodal Center will be an integral piece to the regional transportation network, linking ABQ Ride buses and New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter rail, as well as a catalyst for redevelopment in the area.

The four-acre center is strategically located on Montaño Road, a major connector that crosses the Rio Grande and is one of only a few streets that spans the entire city from east to west.

Flanked by a 300-space parking lot, the pueblo-revival style building will offer transit riders real-time rider information, electronic information kiosks, bike racks and lockers, and free Wi-Fi service, as well as video camera surveillance to keep riders safe.

During a time of high energy costs, residents will enjoy the cost-saving measures of the many "green" features proposed in the design, including LED lighting, solar panels and rainwater capture design elements.