Caltrans: $25 million in funds available for special needs transportation services

Applications are being accepted for $25 million in federal transit grant funds aimed at providing transportation services to persons with special needs, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced on Feb. 24.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5310 Elderly and Disabled Specialized Transit Program was established to meet the transportation needs of elderly persons and persons with disabilities in areas where public transportation services are insufficient.

“These funds will help Caltrans fulfill its core mission of improving mobility for all Californians, including those with special needs,” said Caltrans Director Cindy McKim.  “I want to thank FTA Administrator Rogoff and all our federal partners for this assistance.”

The program allows private nonprofits, and public agencies under certain circumstances, to apply for funding to purchase accessible vans or buses, or other transportation equipment to serve individuals with special needs.

All interested parties are encouraged to apply. The deadline is March 4, 2011, by 5 p.m. For more information and instructions on how to apply, visit the Division of Mass Transportation website at http://dot.ca.gov/programs/rail-and-mass-transportation.