FTA grant funds available for transit mobility, innovation projects

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) yesterday announced the availability of $2 million in competitive grant funding for projects that improve the experience and mobility of transit riders.

The funding comes from the FTA Enhancing Mobility Innovation Program, which supports projects designed to encourage people to board transit through the use of integrated fare payment systems and user-friendly software for on-demand public transportation, FTA officials said in a press release.

For software development projects, the FTA is seeking cross-modal, adaptable platforms for demand-response transit service dispatched through riders’ mobile devices. Proposals will also be evaluated for how they improve air quality, promote racial equity and increase access in underserved areas.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 11, 2022. Grant amounts range from $250,000 to $1 million and eligible applicants include providers of public transportation, private for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, state or local governments, research groups and higher education institutions.