Monday, Dec 5 2011 5:43PM
Some of the funds will be used for rural community development to support the planning or launching of bus, van and commuter services in communities that currently lack them.
U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood recently announced $15 million will be awarded to Native American and Alaska Native tribal governments through the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Tribal Transit Program.
The grants will fund 67 projects on tribal lands to maintain existing transit services and ensure seniors and those with disabilities can use those services. Some of the funds will be used for
rural community development to support the planning or launching of bus, van and commuter services in communities that currently lack them.
"With unemployment among American Indians at an unacceptably high rate, reliable public transportation offers a vital link to jobs, training centers and other essential services," said LaHood.
The 67 approved projects come from 116 applications for funding through the FTA's program. The $15 million is more than one-third of the $41.6 million requested by the nation's tribal transit providers. Despite this discrepancy, FTA administrator Peter Rogoff affirmed the FTA's commitment to ensuring Native Americans on tribal lands and in rural communities have needed access to public transportation that helps them reach employment opportunities, schools and other important services or destinations.
For further reference, check out this source:
U.S. Department of Transportation