The city of Lexington has tried for years to develop a transportation hub near downtown. Now, it's one step closer with a nearly $25 million federal grant for a new train and bus station.
The grant from the US Department of Transportation will help Lexington develop a station at its mixed-use Depot District.
The area is key to the city's revitalization efforts. Manufacturing, for decades the main driver of Lexington's economy, isn't nearly the reliable job source it once was.
The new station will provide a hub for passenger trains and buses, providing access to the city's downtown.
The grant also includes money for rail crossing and train track improvements in the area.
Mayor Newell Clark described the depot funds as a game-changer and said it was the result of efforts from many people including Lexington's nonprofit and business leaders.
He also thanked U.S. Sen. Richard Burr and U.S. Rep. Ted Budd for their work to get the money approved.