WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration announced on Wednesday, 25 projects in 17 states will receive a share of approximately $8.5 million in funding through the Helping Obtain Prosperity for Everyone program to use transit systems to create better lives for people in rural communities and areas experiencing long-term economic distress.
“This $8.5 million federal investment in the transportation systems of economically distressed communities will help give residents better access to jobs and vital services,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.
HOPE grant recipients will receive funding to support planning and technical studies to improve transit, such as evaluating new routes, creating new connections and incorporating modern technologies.
“We are pleased to partner with these grant recipients to find new ways to help rural residents reach the jobs and critical services they need, particularly during the COVID-19 public health emergency,” said FTA Deputy Administrator K. Jane Williams.
All 25 HOPE projects are located in designated Opportunity Zones.
Nineteen of the projects are located in or benefit rural areas, consistent with the Department’s Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success initiative.
FTA received eligible applications from applicants in 17 states totaling $11 million and evaluated project proposals based on criteria outlined in the HOPE Notice of Funding Opportunity.
