The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) along with local and federal officials celebrated the opening of the Cedar-University Rapid Station, which will make it easier for transit riders to connect to bus and rail services at one of the city’s busiest transfer locations.

The new station, near Case Western Reserve University, replaces an aging rail station and bus terminal, built in 1956, with a modern facility that significantly improves access for pedestrians and people with disabilities.

The project included complete reconstruction of the rail station and relocation of the bus terminal to the north side of Cedar Glen, eliminating the need for street crossings and enhancing pedestrian connections between the bus terminal and rail station.

“Cleveland deserves a safe, efficient and reliable transit system that meets the needs of its riders, and provides easy and affordable access to jobs and other opportunities throughout Cuyahoga County,” said Acting Federal Transit Administrator Therese McMillan. “This project helps to ensure that University Circle remains a vibrant, attractive neighborhood offering good transportation choices to hard-working families, students and other residents.”

The U.S. Department of Transportation contributed more than $16 million toward the $20 million project, including $10.5 million through its Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant program and $5.5 million in other FTA grant funds.

The remaining cost was covered by local sources, including the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency and a group of local businesses led by the Cleveland Foundation, including University Circle Inc., Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals and the Cleveland Clinic.