Public transit users across the country could soon be pleasantly surprised with the services that await them.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Authority (FTA) recently announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOTO) for $2 million aimed at advancing innovation in transit and improving experience and mobility for transit riders.
"Tens of millions of Americans use public transit every week, and we have an opportunity to make their experience even better – as well as to attract new riders,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a news release. “This funding will help spur innovation so that people can get around more quickly, reliably, comfortably and conveniently."
The Enhancing Mobility Innovation program supports new methods that push people to get on board, such as integrated fare payment systems and user-friendly software for on-demand public transportation. The program also stands behind the Biden-Harris administration’s goals to increase transit access for underserved communities and promote environmental justice.
In addition, the government agency is encouraging proposals that advance the objectives of the administration's Justice40 initiative, providing investments that benefit disadvantaged communities. By making transit more attractive for riders, the program also helps meet the administration’s climate goals.
"The Enhancing Mobility Innovation program supports transit agencies as they work to improve solutions that create opportunities for people in their communities," said FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez.
