Title
Resolution for 49 U.S. Code Chapter 53, Section 5310 Grant Applications (B)
This item is a request for the City Commission to adopt a Resolution required in support of the Regional Transit System (RTS) application for two Florida Department of Transportation 49 U.S. Code Chapter 53, Section 5310 grants to purchase paratransit trips providing demand response service for persons with disabilities and ADA service to the disabled citizens of Gainesville and capital assistance to purchase a replacement bus, and for the Interim City Manager or designee to execute related Public Transportation Grant Agreement(s) with the Florida Department of Transportation.
Explanation
In October 2021, federal funds were made available through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) 49 U.S. Code Chapter 53, Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities grant program, and RTS has applied for funds to assist with the purchase of paratransit trips and a replacement bus. This is a competitive grant application process administered by FDOT, providing assistance throughout the state with federal funding to support specific, identified prioritized transportation needs.
Grant applications were submitted in December 2021, and FDOT requires that applying agencies’ adopted resolutions are provided no later than February for inclusion with submitted federal grant packages. If funded, the grants will provide much-needed paratransit trips to ensure safe transport to City of Gainesville citizens riding fixed route trips, and capital assistance to purchase a replacement bus. RTS is requesting that the City Commission pass the Resolution to complete the application packages.
Strategic Connection: Goal 3: A Great Place to Live & Experience by providing affordable transit services.
Fiscal Note
Funds are allocated in the Department of Transportation and Mobility, RTS FY22 budget to provide the required matches, if either grant is awarded. RTS anticipates requesting approximately $530,000 for the capital assistance grant application, and will use its capital replacement funds for the required 10% match. For the trip service grant application, RTS will request $50,000; the 50% match for the grant is allocated in the FY22 RTS budget.
Recommendation
The City Commission adopt the Resolution.