Metro News Release

For immediate release: July 17, 2006

Statement from Gladys Mack, Metro Board Chairwoman, regarding the House passage of legislation that authorizes an additional $1.5 billion over 10 years for capital improvements to and maintenance of Metro:

"We are pleased that Mr. Davis and the Congress recognize the importance of a healthy Metro to the workings of the federal government, both on an everyday basis and in an emergency. Over 40 percent of our rush hour riders are federal employees, who rely on us to get them to their jobs and home to their families on time. The Metro system is straining as we are struggling to pack more and more riders on to an aging infrastructure. Congress’ action today is a great step towards preserving this national asset."

News release issued on July 17, 2006.