The Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has earmarked $464 million in nationwide infrastructure grants to improve bus system safety and reliability while also targeting rider mobility.
“This Administration is committed to rebuilding our nation’s transportation infrastructure even through the current COVID-19 crisis and this $464 million in federal grants will help improve the safety and reliability of transit bus service nationwide as the economy returns,” Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao said.
Officials said 96 projects in 49 states and territories would receive funding via the FTA’s Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program, supporting projects to replace, rehabilitate, and purchase buses and related equipment – in addition to purchasing, rehabilitating and constructing bus-related facilities.
“Millions of Americans rely on public transportation to access healthcare, jobs, and other vital services,” FTA Deputy Administrator K. Jane Williams said. “During this unprecedented time, we need to ensure access and mobility for the riders who depend on our nation’s bus systems.”
Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program demand exceeded available funds, with the FTA receiving 282 applications totaling approximately $1.8 billion in funding requests from 51 states and territories. Project proposals were evaluated based on criteria outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity.