Hammond Mayor Thomas M. McDermott, Jr. announced today that the City of Hammond has committed to providing a one-time amount of $50,000 to assist the Gary Public Transportation Corporation (GPTC). The Town of Merrillville had already agreed to donate a similar amount. The Lake County Government has proudly donated $150,000 towards GPTC. The monies from the City of Hammond, coupled with the donations from the Town of Merrillville and the Lake County Government will greatly assist the GPTC with their current financial crisis.
Mayor McDermott announced he is participating in a NIRPC Lakeshore Stakeholder Committee created by Michael Griffin, NIRPC Chairman and Ty Warner, NIRPC Executive Director. The Committee was convened to discuss various options for funding the Lakeshore South Route which transports passengers from Hammond to shopping destinations in Highland and Munster as well as seeking permanent solutions to Lake County’s public transportation woes.
“I understand the importance of regional transportation which is why The City of Hammond is willing to provide the funds to continue the Lakeshore South Route,” stated Mayor McDermott. “However, it is imperative that we work together to seek a permanent source of funding for future transit needs.”