FTA seeks proposals for transit accessibility research program

The Federal Transit Administration yesterday announced a $6 million notice of funding opportunity for a new program aimed at improving access to affordable transportation.

Under the Mobility, Access and Transportation Insecurity: Creating Links to Opportunity Program, the FTA will partner with a chosen organization to develop and implement a research and demonstration program designed to improve access to affordable transportation for everyday destinations, FTA officials said in a press release.

Informally known as the Transportation Insecurity Program, it will focus on areas that lack efficient, convenient transit options. A growing body of research suggests that transportation insecurity — a condition in which people are unable to regularly and reliably travel to meet their daily needs — is a significant factor in persistent poverty, FTA officials said.

Eligible program applicants include departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the government; nonprofit organizations; for-profit organizations; institutions of higher education such as research universities; and technical and community colleges. The successful applicant will work as the lead organization to deliver all aspects of the program.

Proposals are due Oct. 11.