Port Authority announced it has been awarded a total of $8.2 million in federal funding for three projects aimed at reducing traffic congestion and air pollution and improving public transportation in Allegheny County.

The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission awarded Port Authority $5.4 million through the federal Congestion Mitigation Air Quality Program (CMAQ) to construct a new transportation center in Wilkinsburg that would upgrade passenger amenities and access to Wilkinsburg Station along the East Busway.

In addition to federal funding, Pennsylvania will contribute $2.1 million, and Allegheny County will contribute $260,000 toward the $7.8 million project.

The Commission also awarded Port Authority a $2.5 million CMAQ grant to help Port Authority install or replace about four miles of sidewalks to transit routes throughout the region. 

The total project is expected to cost $3.6 million, with the state providing $981,000 and Allegheny County contributing $119,000. Construction is expected to in 2025.

Port Authority will also receive a $280,000 grant from the federal Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program — and administered by SPC — to increase the physical waiting area at eight high-use bus stops through the purchase of rubberized extension pads. 

The total budget for this project is $400,000, with Allegheny County providing a $120,000 local match. This project is expected to begin in 2023.

“I’d like to thank the SPC for its positive reviews and approval of these projects,” said Katharine Kelleman, Port Authority CEO. “These investments will go a long way toward improving mobility throughout our region.”