WRTA Will Receive $2.6M in ODOT Grants

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Western Reserve Transit Authority will receive $2.6 million through the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Office of Transit.

ODOT on Tuesday announced more than $100 million in investments that will support public transportation in Ohio. A total of $106 million was awarded to 383 transit projects throughout the state through seven separate grant programs that focus on workforce mobility, senior citizen and special needs transportation, rural transit and busing. 

Funding will be used for a variety of purposes, such as transit fleet expansion, replacement vehicles, preventative maintenance, facility upgrades, new equipment and technology and operating assistance.

“This funding will help ensure that transportation is not a barrier to opportunity,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “We are improving the quality of life for Ohioans who depend on public transportation to access jobs, education and medical services.”

The WRTA will receive $1,791,873 for office expansion and rehabilitation; $500,000 for preventative maintenance; $286,551 for a bus barn match; and $88,000 for a support vehicle.

“Transportation isn’t just about moving vehicles; it’s about moving people,” said Jack Marchbanks, ODOT director. “These grant funds target the pillar of ODOT’s mission to make transportation accessible, especially in our rural communities.”

The Community Action Agency of Columbiana County was awarded $1.5 million. The agency will receive $1,187,500 for operating assistance; $302,014 for replacement vehicles; $77,599 for mobility management; $7,000 for a direct drive wheel balancer; and $4,895 for mechanic tablets.

The Trumbull County Board of Commissioners will receive $554,728 for contracted transportation services.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.