The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently awarded 47 state and local governments, transit agencies, and nonprofit organizations nationwide with $20 million in Areas of Persistent Poverty program grants.
The program supports the initiation of transit services, and improving service and modernizing fleets.
This round of grants was awarded to projects that will improve transit in low-income areas as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau and supports transportation planning that will provide new services or improve mobility and access.
“Transit is the great equalizer, providing rides for those who do not have a car or cannot drive, and particularly in rural and Tribal areas, having access to an affordable, reliable bus ride can mean the difference between isolation and opportunity,” FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez said.
The Chicago Transit Authority will receive $778,500 to determine whether to reopen the Englewood Line Racine station with modern accessibility standards. The station has been closed for nearly 30 years ago.
The Jackson Medical Mall Foundation in Mississippi will receive $612,684 to develop a framework for expanding transportation options with a community-based transportation model.
The Cherokee Nation in Northeastern Oklahoma will receive $576,188 to update its long-range transit plan.
The Greater Bridgeport Transit Authority in Connecticut will receive $450,000 to conduct planning analysis.