FTA announces $8.9 million for Tribal transit projects across U.S.

Credit: Federal Transit Administration

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has announced the availability of nearly $8.9 million to support American Indian Tribes across the country and Alaska Native villages.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed into law by President Biden in November 2021, had increased competitive funding for the Tribal Transit Program by nearly 83% per year for five years. This is the second consecutive year of increased funding for the programme through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“We are investing in transit serving Indian Lands and Alaskan Native villages, which means that Tribal communities will be better connected to schools, jobs, food, healthcare and other essentials,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Tribal Transit systems transport Americans more than 13 million vehicle miles each year, providing critical access to communities that often have few other travel options. In FY 2022, FTA had awarded funds to 25 American Indian Tribes and Alaska Native communities to help them meet the needs of their citizens, including elders, people with disabilities and youth in Indian Country.

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In addition, the Coeur D’Alene Tribe in Northern Idaho had also received funding from this programme in 2022 to buy new vehicles to provide more quicker and safer rides. The new vehicles will ensure a continuity of service for its members to buy groceries, visit loved ones and go to the doctor.

“(In 2022), I was pleased to meet with representatives from the Nez Perce and Coeur D’Alene Tribes to hear about the significance of this support for their transit systems,” said FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez. “The stories they told echo across our nation. Everyone in our country wants an easier trip to the store, a quicker ride to work, or a more comfortable way to go visit their elders. Thanks to President Biden and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re going to provide better journeys to more people on Tribal lands.”

Applications will be evaluated based on criteria outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity including how the project will improve the quality of life for the Tribe and surrounding rural communities. The application period will close on 26 June 2023.