WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall, D-N.M., today announced legislative projects included in the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Bill to spur economic development in New Mexico.
The projects, which then-Rep. Udall requested for the state through the Appropriations process, include Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Small Business Development:
Transportation:
North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) Bus Facility $475,000
Funding to construct, equip and furnish fleet maintenance facilities. It will also be used towards a Park and Ride terminal and conference center to create a multi-modal central public transit facility to serve the entire region of North Central New Mexico, including four counties and five Pueblos.
Rio Rancho Rio Transit Program $313,500
for the City of Rio Rancho to purchase transit vehicles with wheelchair lifts to be used to transport seniors and disabled adults for medical, employment, educational, and personal care shopping purposes.
Navajo Nation Transit System $237,500
For the Navajo Nation to expand services and routes within New Mexico, purchase replacement transit vehicles, and construct a transit facility. As the Navajo Nation population grows, the demand for transit services will continue to outpace demand.
"Investments in our public transportation system will help New Mexicans save money and reduce energy costs," said Udall. "Especially in times of economic uncertainty, it is important for New Mexicans to have reliable and accessible modes of transportation."
Small Business Development:
Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program (SATOP) $500,000
To transfer the knowledge and technology of the space program by providing free technical assistance to small businesses.
Adelante Service Expansion in Sandoval County $122,821
To expand Adelante services to persons with disabilities living in Sandoval County. Adelante assists and supports individuals with disabilities to live independently, to work, and to have an income through school-to-work transition programs, supported employment, and affirmative businesses. As one of the fastest growing areas in New Mexico, Adelante will use this funding to offer expanded services to Sandoval County including more job coaching and employment services for people with disabilities.
Santa Fe Teen Arts Center $80,750
The secured funding would be used for land leases, site improvements, and equipment for a new facility for the Santa Fe Teen Arts Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Teen Arts Center will house performance space, a green room, incubation offices and studios for emerging teen and young adult artists, and office space for other non-profits. This non-profit has been a venue for the expression of youth artistic culture in Santa Fe and has served over 40,000 young people since its inception.
"Small businesses are the economic engines of our state," said Udall. "We must continue to support their development and growth in New Mexico."
