Federal Transit Administration

The Federal Transit Administration supports local, public transit systems including buses, trolleys, commuter rail, light rail, subways, and ferries. It provides financial and technical assistance, policy and planning support, safety oversight, and technology research to state and local governments and transit agencies.

Formula Grants for Rural Areas – 5311
This award program, authorized through the FAST Act, supports public transportation systems and programs in rural and tribal areas with populations of less than 50,000. Funds can be used for capital, planning, operating assistance, job access, and reverse commute projects. Grantees are eligible for training and technical assistance through the National Rural Transit Assistance Program.

Rural Transportation Assistance Program – 5311(b)(3)
The Rural Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) provides funding for training, technical assistance, research, and support services to rural and public transit agencies – including state rural transit assistance programs – with the goal of promoting program sustainability. The Federal Transit Administration created RTAP to serve as a resource for recipients of Formula Grants for Rural Areas - 5311. These grantees support public transit systems in rural areas with a population of 50,000 or fewer residents.

Transit Planning for All
This program promotes the participation of people with disabilities and older adults in the design and administration of transportation systems. Its goal is to increase the accessibility and usability of such systems for all riders. Transit Planning for All is supported by the Federal Transit Administration and the Administration for Community Living.