Massachusetts Gov. Baker announces nearly $9M for Community Transit Grant Program

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Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker announced Friday that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation would provide nearly $9 million in Community Transit Grant Program funds.

The funds can be used by municipalities, Councils on Aging, nonprofit entities, and other organizations for transit operating costs, mobility management, and new capital investments.

“Community Transit Grants provide critical funding to local organizations to purchase equipment to help people get where they need to go efficiently and safely,” Baker said. “Our Administration will continue to make efforts to work with local leaders, community stakeholders, and the private sector to make transit accessible to everyone.”

The $8.9 million in funding is for applications made during 2021 for the 2022 Fiscal Year. Awards were made to 27 organizations for 115 vans and minibuses, as well as to 18 entities for 23 operating and mobility management projects.

Awards varied in amount from a high of $150,000 to the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority for operating funds to support paratransit service from PVTA to local Councils on Aging, and to the Town of Ware for operating funds to support the Quaboag Connector; to a low of $8,414 to the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority to fund salaries and materials for BRTA’s travel training program.

“We are pleased to provide this key funding to cities and towns, regional transit authorities, and non-profit organizations statewide to help support their transportation needs,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “These grant awards expand upon current transportation services in areas where transit may currently be limited and will ensure that residents have additional options for travel.”