Phoenix transit awarded $1M for paratransit

The Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority and the City of Phoenix Public Transit Department were selected to receive funding through Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant programs targeted to expand transportation services for persons with disabilities or low incomes. 

The awardees were selected through a competitive application process decided by a panel of local transit stakeholders. Eligible applicants include private non-profit organizations, state or local governmental authorities, and operators of public transportation services including private operators.

Under New Freedom Program funding, $647,923 will be awarded to Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority (RPTA) for several projects, including an online transportation directory, a regional mobility management program and sub-regional alternative transportation services. The City of Phoenix will receive $62,778 for a new pilot taxi coupon program for ADA-eligible seniors.

Job Access Reverse Commute Program funding awarded $301,264 to RPTA for the replacement of two vehicles servicing the Gila Bend/ Ajo Route.

Awards were funded by the New Freedom grant program, which supports new public transportation services and public transportation alternatives beyond those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) program. JARC assists states and localities in developing new or expanded transportation services that connect welfare recipients and other low-income persons to jobs and other employment related services.

The program funding is for fiscal year 2009 and the FTA is expected to award the funds by mid-2010.