July 08, 2022
Expansion Supports Development of the Region’s Third Bus Rapid Transit Line
ALBANY, NY (July 8, 2022) The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) celebrated the completion of its expanded garage at its headquarters in Albany on Friday. The 25,000 square foot addition will house buses for the third Bus Rapid Transit line, the Purple Line, currently under construction.
“We have developed a vision to introduce new services that connect our communities,” said Jayme Lahut, CDTA Board Chairman. “As we move through 2022 with a full plate of initiatives, we know the role we play in the development of our region and that’s a charge we take very seriously.”
The expanded garage includes three new in-ground articulated maintenance lifts and the installation of two new bus washes. This project was completed with competitive grant money from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
“We are proud to officially open our expanded garage at our headquarters.” said Carm Basile, CDTA CEO. “Once the Purple Line is operational, 40 miles of BRT and three BRT lines will be a reality. It is the only high-capacity bus service of its kind in upstate New York. The Purple Line will be a catalyst to growth and development along one of the region’s busiest corridors.”
LeChase Construction Services was able to complete the expansion three months ahead of schedule, helping to further the Purple Line project for the Capital Region.
“LeChase Construction Services is proud to partner with the Capital District Transportation Authority on their Albany garage renovation and expansion project. At LeChase, we believe in making a positive impact in the communities where we live and work. It was rewarding to see this project come to life, and to help CDTA in their continuing efforts to provide top-tier transportation options for the entire Capital Region. We are excited for what the future holds for both CDTA and LeChase, and we thank everyone at CDTA for their continued partnership,” said Neil Schiavi, Vice President, LeChase Construction Services.
The BusPlus Purple Line will operate on an eight-mile corridor through the City of Albany along Washington and Western Avenues. The Purple Line will cut commuting times between downtown Albany and Crossgates by more than 20%. Purple Line service is expected to start in fall 2023.