by JD Davidson
Nearly 400 transit programs across the state will share more than $100 million in taxpayer funds for various projects to support public transportation.
Gov. Mike DeWine announced $106 million for 383 different projects through seven grant programs focusing on workforce mobility, senior citizens, special needs transportation, rural transit and busing.
“This funding will help ensure that transportation is not a barrier to opportunity. We are improving the quality of life for Ohioans who depend on public transportation to access jobs, education, and medical services,” DeWine said.
The money can be used for fleet expansion, replacement vehicles, preventative maintenance, facility upgrades, new equipment and technology and operating help.
Most of the money comes from the state’s Rural Transportation Program, which uses state and federal money for government and nonprofit organizations to increase ridership and passenger trips per hour.
Forty-two projects will share $39 million, including four receiving more than $1 million.
The city of Chillicothe was granted $3 million, while FRS Transportation – which provides transportation in Highland, Adams and Brown counties – got more than $2 million.
Both the city of Sandusky and the Community Action Agency of Columbiana County received more than $1 million.
All four of those grants were for operating assistance.
Also, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority will receive more than $8 million for rail care replacement, and the Central Ohio Transit Authority in Columbus will receive $1.8 million for a feasibility study.
“Transportation isn’t just about moving vehicles; it’s about moving people. These grant funds target the pillar of ODOT’s mission to make transportation accessible, especially in our rural communities,” said Ohio Department of Transportation Director Jack Marchbanks.
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JD Davidson is a regional editor at The Center Square.
Photo “Rural Road” by Ohio DOT.
