Public transit funding becomes available through new infrastructure law
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently announced that more than $4.7 billion in transit formula funding […]
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently announced that more than $4.7 billion in transit formula funding is now available to transit agencies, states, and tribal governments to support public transportation.
“From counties with just one van providing rides, to systems operating hundreds of trains, buses, and ferries in the largest cities in America, our communities depend on this funding, which is increasing significantly thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez said in a statement. “This first down payment will help agencies start new projects, fix old infrastructure, and bring more fast, safe, convenient service.”
According to a news release from FTA, the funding was made available under the Further Extending Government Funding Act. The amount also includes funding identified as advance appropriations in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) for FY 2022 for the State of Good Repair and the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities formula programs.
Formula-based grant programs include funding for transit systems in both urbanized and rural areas, grants for buses and bus facilities—including low- and no-emission buses—transit designed for seniors and people with disabilities, planning funds, and support to improve the condition of transit assets.
Full-year formula funding will be available once Congress passes an FY 2022 appropriations bill. Once enacted, transit funding will be available at the levels proscribed by the IIJA to support transit in 500 urban communities across the country and rural transit systems nationwide. According to FTA, that is approximately 35% more funding than previous years.
