Funds target Wisconsin senior, disability transportation

© Shutterstock

Wisconsin state officials said $3,799,860 in federal and state funds has been earmarked to aid 57 public and non-profit agencies providing specialized transit to seniors and disabled individuals.

“Mobility is a basic need that helps people stay connected with their communities,” Gov. Tony Evers said. “This funding invests in stronger, more inclusive communities across Wisconsin, particularly in many rural areas.”

Officials indicated the funding allotment would be administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).

“Local transit agencies across Wisconsin are making smart decisions based on their communities’ needs to make sure everyone can get access to transportation,” WisDOT Secretary-designee Craig Thompson said. “I am pleased that these grants will help solve these needs.”

The approved endeavors for 2021 include funding for 14 mobility management projects slated to aid coordination of transportation services while increasing transportation capacity and connecting individuals with transportation services in their geographic service area.

Additionally, 20 Operating Assistance grants would be funded to help organizations defray the programs’ daily costs. Many of the grant recipients serve smaller communities in rural areas.

Officials said the federal and state initiative launched in the mid-1970s has helped fund the purchase of more than 2,200 vehicles in Wisconsin to provide transportation services to seniors and individuals with disabilities.