WORCESTER – The Worcester Regional Transit Authority [WRTA] will receive 11 new vehicles as part of the state’s Communities in Transit Program Awards.
On Thursday, Governor Charlie Baker’s office announced a total of $9.5 million for cities, towns and nonprofit organizations through the program administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation [MassDOT].
The annual competitive grant program awards money to be used for transit operating costs, mobility management or new capital investments.
“Community Transit Grants provide critical funding to local organizations to purchase equipment to help people get where they need to go efficiently and safely,” said Governor Baker. “Our Administration will continue to make efforts to work with local leaders, community stakeholders and the private sector to make transit accessible to everyone.”
This year, MassDOT has awarded funding for 126 vans and mini-buses to 33 organizations. In addition, $1,330,711 in funding was awarded to 19 organizations for 30 operating and mobility management projects.
“We are pleased to provide this key funding to cities and towns, regional transit authorities and non-profit organizations statewide to help support their transportation needs,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “This program will expand upon current transportation services in areas where transit may currently be limited, and will ensure that residents have the resources they need to travel.”
“The Community Transit Grant Program plays an integral part in supporting transportation networks in local communities,”said MassDOT Secretary and CEO Stephanie Pollack. “These grants help transportation providers state-wide continue to care for and improve the service they have, in particular, for people who rely on getting help to where they need to go, such as individuals who have disabilities.”
The Fiscal 2020 Community Transit Grant Program is awarding funding for 66 operating and mobility management projects to 43 entities out of the 75 applications received.
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