The city of Conroe received more than $2 million in Federal Transit Administration funds June 18 through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, or CARES Act, according to a press release from U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady, R-The Woodlands.

The $2,060,115 grant covers costs the city undertook to continue to provide safe transit through the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to the FTA, Brady said the funds would be used to replace eight of the existing buses as well as extend bus routes.

“As the fastest growing city in Texas, Conroe is undergoing tremendous change. This grant will help Conroe provide reliable, updated infrastructure for the safety and health of its citizens,” Brady said.

Mayor Toby Powell said he was surprised when he received the news because the city has not applied for the grant, but he was grateful for the funds.

“It certainly is going to help boost our transportation department,” Powell said.

The city of Conroe suspended bus fares through the coronavirus pandemic so residents could seek medical treatment more easily.