The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) today announced the opportunity to apply for $15 million in research funds through the new Integrated Mobility Innovation (IMI) Demonstration program. This program will support innovations in public transportation service models, payment systems, and automation applications to improve mobility.

The Integrated Mobility Innovation program brings together three areas of high interest to the transit industry and traveling public: Mobility on Demand, Strategic Transit Automation Research, and Mobility Payment Integration. Applicants can propose projects that involve one or multiple areas.

Mobility on Demand (MOD) – $8 million
Building on FTA’s successful initial round of MOD projects, these projects will deploy new tools and service models, such as mobile applications or on-demand microtransit, that make transit more convenient and accessible. Focus areas include projects that provide first-mile/last-mile connections to transit hubs; improve mobility for those with limited transportation choices; and involve targeted, reproducible approaches to data sharing and collection.

Strategic Transit Automation Research (STAR) – $5 million
FTA developed the five-year Strategic Transit Automation Research (STAR) Plan to explore the use of vehicle automation technologies in bus transit operations. This grant opportunity is specifically soliciting automation projects identified in the STAR Plan roadmap, including Automated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for transit buses and automated shuttles.

Mobility Payment Integration (MPI) – $2 million
This research area was developed from FTA’s recognition of the importance of the evolving mobility payment marketplace in managing and integrating mobility.  Payment integration can allow seamless, complete trip planning among a range of public and private operators, enhancing regional mobility.

How to Apply
Providers of public transportation, including public transportation agencies, state/local government DOTs, and federally-recognized Indian tribes, are eligible to apply. Eligible applicants must identify one or more strategic project partner(s) with a substantial interest and involvement in the project.

Projects will be evaluated and selected based on criteria outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity, including the project’s potential impact, innovativeness, and transferability to other communities. Applications will be accepted until August 6, 2019, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time.

Additional information, including detailed application instructions and contacts for additional information, can be found at https://transit.dot.gov/IMI