The Glenwood Springs Post Independent reports that President Obama’s 2011 budget proposal includes a $24 million grant for the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority’s plan to significantly upgrade its bus system.

That money, through the federal Very Small Starts Program, would be dedicated to RFTA’s bus rapid transit expansion plan known as, also known informally as “RFTA on steroids.” RFTA already received an $810,000 grant in the 2010 appropriation bill.

Roaring Fork Valley voters have also approved bonding authority for up to $25 million for the BRT project, so close to $50 million appears to be secured. The project is envisioned to cost between $45 million and $50 million.

Go to the Glenwood Springs Post Independent to see the entire article.