Title
Resolution for Section 5311 Grant Application (B)
This item is a request for the City Commission to adopt a Resolution to allow the Regional Transit System (RTS) to apply for a Section 5311 grant to provide rural transportation services to the citizens of Gainesville and Alachua County, and for the City Manager or designee to execute related Public Transportation Grant Agreement(s) with the Florida Department of Transportation.
Explanation
Federal funds are available from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) through the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to provide rural transportation services. The funding is set up on a 5-year cycle and is issued either yearly or every 3 years.
If awarded, RTS will use the funds to provide service in the surrounding rural areas. RTS is requesting that the City Commission adopt the Resolution allowing the application to go forward to apply for much-needed rural transportation services.
Fiscal Note
The Section 5311 grant program is administered by FDOT through a competitive process. Funds are allocated in the RTS FY19 budget to provide the required match. RTS anticipates submitting a grant application in the amount of $50,000 (project total) for rural service, and is required to provide a 50/50 match for the grant.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) adopt the Resolution to allow the Regional Transit System (RTS) to apply for a 5311 Grant; 2) allow RTS to continue to provide rural transportation services to the citizens of Gainesville; and 3) authorize the Interim City Manager to execute related Public Transportation Grant Agreement(s) with the Florida Department of Transportation, subject to approval by the City Attorney as to form and legality.