METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

U.S DOT Announces Research Funding to Improve People’s Transportation Access

FTA plans to share findings with the public so research organizations, transit agencies, and others can learn from and expand upon the insights developed from research.  

U.S DOT Announces Research Funding to Improve People’s Transportation Access

FTA said it will work with one organization as program lead to develop and implement demonstrations that support public transportation to increase transportation access and evaluate outcomes and effectiveness.

Credit:

FTA

2 min to read


The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced a $6 million Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to help improve people’s access to affordable transportation, especially in areas that currently lack efficient and convenient transit options.

“Transit can be a great equalizer, but for many Americans, such options are limited or simply don’t exist,” said Nuria Fernandez,  FTA Administrator. “This new program will help eliminate barriers to affordable transportation and improve access to jobs, school, healthcare, friends and family — all of the ingredients for a good quality of life.” 

Ad Loading...

Under the Mobility, Access and Transportation Insecurity: Creating Links to Opportunity Program, the selected organization will partner with FTA to establish a research and demonstration program to improve access to affordable transportation options for everyday destinations. FTA plans to share findings with the public so research organizations, transit agencies, and others can learn from and expand upon the insights developed from FTA-funded research.  

In support of the DOT Strategic Plan and recently released Equity Action Plan, the Mobility, Access and Transportation Insecurity: Creating Links to Opportunity Programwill address several Biden-Harris Administration priorities, including:

  • Investing in American infrastructure and communities.

  • Making transportation safer.

  • Reducing transportation costs in household budgets.

  • Making the nation’s transportation systems more equitable. 

  • Building more resilient and sustainable transportation systems to benefit and protect communities. 

  • Investing in research and innovation.  

FTA said it will work with one organization as program lead to develop and implement demonstrations that support public transportation to increase transportation access and evaluate outcomes and effectiveness. 

More Management

Terrel Smith on a bus with Kiel seats

Terrel Smith Launches New TransitOne Venture, Focuses on Building Relationships

The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.

Read More →
A group of people stand in the Harlem-148 Street 3 Station and pose during a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

New Accessibility Upgrades Open at Harlem Subway Station

A new ADA-compliant ramp and station upgrades improve access, enhance the rider experience, and deliver millions in cost savings for the MTA.

Read More →
Erin Hockman
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

Iowa's DART Taps New CEO

Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Caltrain trains on tracks
Railby StaffMay 1, 2026

Caltrain Survey Shows Record-High Rider Approval

The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.

Read More →
A VIA bus
Busby StaffMay 1, 2026

San Antonio's VIA Launches Next Round of Bus Improvements

The changes are designed to reduce overall travel time, shorten wait times, and get customers to their destinations more quickly.

Read More →
A graphic of a map showing a "Snapshot of Systemwide Vulnerabilities (projected)."
Managementby News/Media ReleaseMay 1, 2026

MBTA Unveils First Systemwide Climate Resilience Roadmap

The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.

Read More →
Ad Loading...

People Movement: DART Names Interim Chief, Clean Energy Taps New President/CEO

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
A person working on a bus
ManagementMay 1, 2026

Data-Driven Maintenance: Focusing Effort Where It Matters Most

Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.

Read More →
transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
frontrunner bus
SponsoredMay 1, 2026

ADA Compliant Transit: Easier, More Dignified Travel for Every Passenger

Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.

Read More →