U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater toured the Union Station Transportation Center and the Montgomery Area Visitors Center Friday, December 1, 2000.

The Visitors Center opened in the main lobby of Union Station and the Lightning Route Trolley began operation on Nov. 29.

Union Station Transportation Center is a joint development project with both public uses and private tenants. The $4 million purchase of the Center was made possible through a $6.25 million grant. The recent half-million dollar renovation of the train shed was also paid for through the original grant. Sen. Richard  Shelby obtained the earmark.

An outdoor transportation museum is planned for the train shed. Proposed exhibits include an 1880’s trolley, a steam locomotive and a Wright Brothers era flyer.  While here Slater participated in the opening of the Rosa Parks Library and Museum.

Rodney Slater, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary, stands in front of the Montgomery Area Transit System’s Rosa Parks commemorative bus on December 1, 2000.

Pictured from Left to Right are: Willie Peak, assistant to the Mayor; Rodney Slater, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation ; Lloyd Faulkner, City Finance Director; Randy George, Chamber  President.