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Public Transportation Funding Opportunities

When a project involves federal funds, NEPA requirements must be met. Please contact your RTC for more information.

Funding Opportunities Timelines

In response to feedback, ODOT is adjusting how we schedule our biennial funding call for projects. It’s our goal to serve transit providers better and we hope that an updated funding cycle will simplify the application process, improve reliability of funds, and improve efficiency and accountability. As a result, the start date to federal grant periods will begin in October (not July) to align with funding availability while state grant periods will remain July. 

Proposed 
Milestones
Updated March 3/26

Competitive Transit Grant Phase 1

2027-28

Competitive Transit Grant Phase 2

2027-28

Federal Formula

2027-29

STIF Formula Plans

2027-29

Consolidated Competitive
Grant Program

2028-30

Notice of funding opportunity postedFebruary 2026 March 2026March 2026August 2026January 2027
Call for projects opensFebruary 2026March 2026March 2026August 2026January 2027
Initial applications or STIF Plans dueApril 2026April 2026May 2026

October 2026

(optional)

February 2027
Final applications or STIF Plans dueMay 2026June 2026July 2026 January 2027
June 2027
Grant period beginsOctober 2027October 2027
October 2027July 2027

July 2028 (STIF)

October 2028 (Federal)


The following funding opportunities support the delivery of public transportation in Oregon and are managed by the Oregon Department of Transportation.  These funding opportunities use dedicated funding that ODOT cannot use for maintenance or agency operations.

Active Funding Opportunities 

Purpose

​The Competitive Transit Grant provides funding to public transportation providers for projects that maintain or improve Oregon’s public transportation system. This program replaces previous mid-cycle discretionary grant programs and consolidates federal and state competitive funding into a single call for projects. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis and supports both capital and operations projects.

Open now: Phase 1 provides federal funding to replace and purchase buses. This Phase 1 grant opportunity is federally funded and is not impacted by ODOT’s ongoing state budget gap. Phase 2, which is scheduled to open for applications later in March 2026, will provide funding for capital and operations projects.​

Timeline
Funding

​The Competitive Transit Grant Phase 1 is funded through the Federal Transit Administration’s Section 5339(a) Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities. Phase 1 will award $3.5 million in federal funding for vehicle replacement, right-sizing, and expansion projects.

Match Requirements

​Applicants must demonstrate the ability to provide at least 20 percent of the total project cost. For federally funded projects, the typical match ratio is 80 percent federal and 20 percent local, with certain ADA or Clean Air Act-compliant projects eligible for a 90/10 match.

Eligible Recipients

​Eligible recipients include public transportation agencies, mass transit districts, transportation districts, federally recognized tribes, cities, counties, special districts, intergovernmental entities, municipal corporations, and private non-profits engaged in public transportation that provide fixed route service. Agencies undergoing forensic audits or with significant financial deficiencies may be considered high risk and subject to additional review.

Eligible Projects

​Capital projects may include vehicle replacement, vehicle right-sizing, and vehicle expansion.  Vehicle replacement and right-sizing will be prioritized.

Environmental Requirements: If the vehicle acquisition requires ancillary facilities to put the vehicle into service, such as an EV charger or new vehicle parking area or storage, the project will be evaluated in Phase 2.

Application

​2027-2028 Competitive Transit Grant Application​

For More Information

​Competitive Transit Grant Guidance Manual​

Competitive Transit Grant Application Instructions​

Grant Agreement Period: October 2027 – September 2031
Additional Resources

​Competitive Transit Grant Application Training Webinar – March 12, 2026  09:30am-10:30am (Registration Link)

Competitive Transit Grant Q&A – March 18, 2026  09:30am-10:30am (Join Link)

Award Announcement

​Accepted applicant will be notified by email.

Purpose

​The Competitive Transit Grant program provides funding to public transportation providers for projects that maintain or improve Oregon’s public transportation system. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis and supports both capital and operations projects. This program replaces previous the Mid-Cycle Discretionary Grant program and STIF Discretionary and Statewide Transit Network program, and consolidates federal and state competitive funding into a single call for projects. 

Open now: Phase 2 provides federal funding and state funding for transit capital and operations projects. 

Timeline

​March 11 – Phase 2 call for Projects opens and Application form and Application Instructions are available.   

March 18 - Competitive Transit Grant Q&A  (9:30am)
April 20 – Phase 2 initial applications due (5:00 pm)
June 22 – Phase 2 final applications due (5:00 pm)
February – Announcement of awards
Funding

​The Competitive Transit Grant Phase 2 is funded through the Federal Transit Administration’s Section 5339(a) Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities, STIF Intercommunity, and STIF Discretionary grant programs. Phase 2 will award up to $21.6 million in federal and state funding for capital and operations projects. 

Match Requirements

​Applicants must demonstrate the ability to provide at least 20 percent of the total project cost. For federally funded projects, the typical match ratio is 80 percent federal and 20 percent local, with certain projects eligible for a 90/10 match.

Eligible Recipients

​Eligible recipients include public transportation agencies, mass transit districts, transportation districts, federally recognized tribes, cities, counties, special districts, intergovernmental entities, municipal corporations, and private non-profits engaged in public transportation that provide fixed route service. Agencies undergoing forensic audits or with significant financial deficiencies may be considered high risk and subject to additional review.

Eligible Projects

​Capital

  • Vehicle acquisitions, including projects not awarded in Phase 1
  • Construction or rehabilitation of transit facilities
  • Capital equipment purchases
Operations
  • Ongoing operations or recently reduced operations
  • New pilot projects
  • Preventive maintenance
  • Purchased transportation services that maintain ongoing operations or recently reduced service

Environmental Requirements

The applicant should consider the environmental resources potentially affected by the project and anticipate the level of environmental review needed for FTA to meet National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements.

Successful applicants may be required to provide documents that support FTA’s environmental review of the project under NEPA, including but not limited to compliance documentation for Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. ​​

Application

2027-2028 Competitive Transit Grant Application

For More Information

Competitive Transit Grant Guidance Manual
Competitive Transit Grant Application Instructions​

Grant Agreement Period​

FTA Buses and Bus Facilities 5339(a): October 2027 – September 2031

STIF Discretionary and Intercommunity
  • Operations projects: July 2027 – June 2028
  • Capital projects: July 2027 – June 2031​​

Additional Resources

Competitive Transit Grant Application Training Webinar - March 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am
Competitive Transit Grant Q&A - March 18, 2026  09:30am - 10:30am


Award Announcement

​Accepted applicant will be notified by email.

Purpose

The purpose of the FTA Section 5310 program is to improve mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities when the transportation service provided is unavailable, insufficient or inappropriate to meet these needs.

Timeline
March 4, 2026 - Guidance published online
March 16, 2026 - Application portal open
March 19, 2026 - Federal Formula Solicitation Training​  (10:00am)
April 23, 2026 - Federal Formula Solicitation Q&A  (1:00pm)
May 14, 2026 - Initial applications due
July 16, 2026 - Final applications due to ODOT, application must be submitted to Lead Agency based on Lead Agency deadline.​
October 2027  - Grant agreement period beings
Funding

2027-29 5310 Allocation Estimates​

Match Requirements
Rural and small urban apportionments
  • Federal Funds - 80%
  • Local Match - 20%
STBG
  • Federal Funds - 89.73%
  • Local Match - 10.27%
Eligible Recipients

Eligible recipients are counties, mass transit districts, transportation districts, transportation service districts, Indian tribal governments, cities, councils of government, and private nonprofit organizations.

Private for-profit companies are not eligible for this program and may only participate as vendors with service contracts or agreements with eligible recipients.
Eligible Projects

​​Eligible project includes vehicle acquisitions, facilities construction or rehabilitation, equipment and other capital assets, mobility management, purchased transportation services, and preventive maintenance .

Application

Lead Agency application link
Subrecipient application link

For More Information

Contact: Ryan Phillips

Contact your RTC​


Additional Resources

Section 5310 Grant Application Checklist​

Federal Formula Solicitation Training PowerPoint, 2027-29​

Indirect Cost Worksheet, 2027-29​

Section 5310 Application Instructions, 2027-29​

Section 5310 Program Guidance, 2027-29​​​​

Federal Transit Administration 5310 Program Overview

Federal Transit Administration Circulars​

Award Announcement

Applicants will be notified of award by email.​


Purpose

The purpose of the FTA Section 5311 program is to maintain and improve public transportation services in rural areas.

Timeline
March 4, 2026 - Guidance published online
March 16, 2026 - Application portal open
March 19, 2026 - Federal Formula Solicitation Training  (10:00am)
April 23, 2026 - Federal Formula Solicitation Q&A  (1:00pm)
May 14, 2026 - Initial applications due
July 16, 2026 - Final applications due
October 2027  - Grant agreement period beings
Funding

2027-29 5311 Allocation Estimates​

Match Requirements
Capital, project administration, preventive maintenance, and mobility management 
  • Federal Funds – 89.73%
  • Local Match – 10.27%
Operations
  • Federal Funds – 56.08%
  • Local Match – 43.92%
Eligible Recipients

Prequalified recipients operating transit services in rural communities with populations of fewer than 50,000 people. 
Eligible Projects
Eligible capital projects include acquisition of accessible vehicle (buses, vans), facilities improvements, equipment and other capital asset purchases, mobility management, purchased transportation services, and preventive maintenance

Eligible operations projects and activities include salaries and fringe benefits; purchases of oil, fuel, replacement tires and parts; vehicle licensing, leases and maintenance; maintenance and operations contracts, insurance and other costs directly associated with operating the system. Capital-type (durable goods) expenses less than $10,000, are considered part of operating expenses.
Application

Application link

For More Information

Contact Ryan Phillips

Contact your RTC​​

Additional Resources

Section 5311 Grant Application Checklist​

Federal Formula Solicitation Training PowerPoint, 2027-29​

Indirect Cost Worksheet, 2027-29​

Section 5311 Application Instructions, 2027-29​

Section 5311 Program Guidance, 2027-29​​​​

Federal Transit Administration 5311 Program Overview

Federal Transit Administration Circulars​

Award Announcement

​Applicants will be notified of award by email.


Purpose

The STIF Formula Fund is intended to expand, improve, and maintain public transportation services in Oregon.​​​​

Timeline

August 19, 2026: Application Open

August 25, 2026: STIF Formula Webinar

September 14, 2026: Drop-in STIF Formula Plan Tips & Q&A

October 22, 2026: Drop-in STIF Formula Plan Office Hours

October 29, 2026: Initial Application Deadline (Optional, but encouraged)

November 2-5, 2026: Oregon Public Transportation Conference Workshop

January 14, 2027: Application submission deadline

March, 2027: ODOT Application review complete

April, 2027: Public Transportation Advisory Committee approval of STIF Plans

May, 2027: Oregon Transportation Commission approval of STIF Plans

July 1, 2027: New STIF Plans in effect​




Funding

At its inception, the STIF program was funded solely by the Oregon "transit tax," which is a state payroll tax equal to one-tenth of 1 percent. The STIF program is also funded by ID card fees, non-highway gas tax, and cigarette tax revenues. The total funding amount will be estimated annually, and actual revenues will vary based on transit tax collections.​

Match Requirements

There are no match requirements for STIF Formula funds.

Eligible Recipients

Only a Qualified Entity may submit a STIF Plan. A Qualified Entity is a county in which no part of a Mass Transit District or Transportation District exists, a Mass Transit District, a Transportation District or an Indian Tribe, or an Intergovernmental Entity that provides public transportation services on behalf of a county or Indian Tribe. A Public Transportation Service Provider or any non-profit, private for-profit, or public entity is eligible to receive STIF Formula funds through a qualified entity as a sub-recipient under the Qualified Entity's STIF Plan.​​

A map of Qualified Entities is located in the STIF Rulemaking Document Library on the STIF webpage.

Eligible Projects

STIF funding may be used to finance investments and improvements in public transportation services, except for light rail capital expenses. STIF may be used for public transportation purposes that support the effective planning, deployment, operation, and administration of public transportation programs.

STIF moneys are not intended to supplant local funding sources to maintain existing services. A STIF Plan that proposes to use STIF funding to replace local funding to maintain an existing service may result in denial of the funding request.​


Application

STIF Plan Application Form
Subrecipient Application Form

For More Information

Contact: Ben Goldberg

Contact your Regional Transit Coordinator​


Additional Resources
STIF Plan Application Instructions
STIF Guidebook
STIF Allocation Estimates, July 2026​
STIF Website​​

GIS Map: STIF Communities with High Percentages of Low-Income Households​
Instructions for GIS Map of STIF Communities with High Percentages of Low-Income Households​



​​​
Award Announcement

Applicants will be awarded in 2027​.

2025-27 STIF Formula Awards​

Purpose
To fund planning projects that lead to improved mobility and accessibility for people in Oregon, more livable and economically vital communities, and efficient, connected, and coordinated public transportation systems.  ​
Timeline

Grantees will have two years to fully conduct and complete projects.  Projects with longer time frames are not suitable for these 5304 grant funds.  Projects extensions are not eligible, and grants are awarded based on grantees ability to complete during the award period.

  • Sept. 1, 2026: Pre-application opens
  • Sept. 25, 2026: Pre-application due
  • Oct. 9, 2026: Applications provided to eligible those who submitted a pre-application
  • Nov. 25, 2026: Applications Due
  • Spring 2027: An agreed upon statement of work for delivering project.
  • Summer 2027: Execution of agreements
  • Oct. 1, 2027: Projects can begin if executed agreement is finalized
  • Sept. 30, 2029: Projects completed and grant closed

Funding
  • Funding available: $900,000
  • Sources of funding: Federal Transit Administration Section 5304 Statewide Planning and Research; Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund Technical Resource Center


Match Requirements
  • For planning projects for urban areas: up to 20% local match
  • For planning projects for rural areas: no match required

Eligible Recipients
Eligible recipients include Metropolitan planning organizations, local governmental authorities (including cities, counties and councils of government), and operators of public transportation systems, and tribal governments.​
Eligible Projects

​Eligible projects include:

  • Developing transportation plans and programs (coordinated plans, system development, route modifications, long or short-range plans, succession plan)
  • Planning and evaluating transportation projects (feasibility studies for facilities improvements, fleet expansion, replacement, software, technology)
  • Conducting technical studies (regional coordination, reductions in duplicative services)
  • Comprehensive intermodal transportation planning, including relationships among land use and transportation modes.

Excluded and ineligible activities include: Vehicle purchases, routine operations, non-planning expense, marketing, commercial promotions or non-transportation community projects, capital project preliminary engineering, surveying, or construction work.

Environmental Studies, plans or documents required under project development. If in doubt, discuss with your RTC.​

Application
Pre-application link: https://www.cognitoforms.com/ODOT2/_20272029PlanningAndResearchGrants ​
For More Information

Webinar: ​The ODOT Public Transportation Office is hosting a webinar to answer your questions about the application, how to fill out the online form and how to avoid common mistakes. October 19, 2026, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Pacific Time. Registration link coming soon.

Assistance: For general questions about the application process and eligibility, contact Phil Paulson, Technical Resource Coordinator Program Coordinator phil.paulson@odot.oregon.gov.  For advice on preparing an application for your specific project, contact your Regional Transit Coordinator. ​


Additional Resources
Award Announcement

Purpose

​This federal fund provides assistance to employees and volunteers of grant recipients and others to attend transit-related trainings. Training is provided directly by Public Transportation Division staff or at state, regional, and national workshops and conferences. 

Timeline

​Applications accepted year-round.

Funding

​Funds are distributed through competitive and formula processes based on criteria developed by the Public Transportation Division. The number of scholarships awarded for a specific event or to an agency may be limited. The Public Transportation Division reimburses qualified expenses to the agency (not the individual).
Funding is provided through state funding sources and the Federal Transit Administration’s Rural Transit Assistance Program (5311(b)(3)). ODOT cannot use this funding for maintenance or agency operations.

Match Requirements

​Scholarships generally support 50 to 80 percent of registration and travel expenses for a training or conference.

Eligible Recipients

​Employees and volunteers of grant recipients and transportation service providers are eligible. Training scholarships are primarily for staff at rural transit agencies and are required to be submitted at least 60 days prior to the training in question for approval with receipts submitted within 30 days of the event to qualify for reimbursement.​

Eligible Projects

​Attendance at the annual Oregon Public Transportation Conference, grant-related trainings (such as trainings prior to a grant application cycle), transit manager topic trainings, grant management trainings, compliance trainings, training provided by other state agencies or other sources.

Application

Technical Assistance Program - Scholarship Application​

​
For More Information
​Email Tyler Tweedy or call 971-718-​3049.​
​​​
Additional Resources

National Rural Transit Assistance Program
Federal Transit Administration Circulars

Award Announcement

​Accepted applicants notified by email.

Inactive Funding Opportunities

Purpose

​​This grant is available to fund a project that provides intercity bus service to the public on the I-84 corridor at a minimum between The Dalles and Boise, Idaho. The service may extend from Boise as far west as Portland. 

Timeline
  • ​May 8 - Notice of Funding Opportunity posted.  
  • May 14 - Call for Projects opens and application is available.
  • May 20 - Application info session webinar at 9:00 a.m. 
  • May 27 - Drop-in online Q&A session at 1:00 p.m. 
  • May 29 - Call for Projects closes and applications due by 5:00 p.m. 
  • June - Award decision made. 
  • June/July - Award announced. 
Funding

​ODOT will provide up to $600,000 in grant funding for one year of service. The grant will be funded by state or federal transit funds. 

This project will be funded with Statewide Transportation Improvement funds (STIF) or Federal Transit Administration Section 5311(f) Intercity Bus (5311(f)) funds. Federal Circular FTA C 9040.1H contains guidance on the requirements to receive 5311(f) funds. Guidance for STIF funds can be found in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund and Statewide Transit Network Program Guidebook. 

Match Requirements

​Whether STIF or 5311(f) funds are awarded, the total funding available is up to $600,000. The funding source will be determined as part of the award process, and the awardee will be responsible for the local match.  

  • If awarded STIF funds, the match ratio is 80% state/20% local funds.  
  • If awarded 5311(f) funding, the match ratio for operations is 50% federal/50% local funds, and for capital and project administration activities​ it is 80% federal/20% local funds. 
  • In kind match can be used for both funding sources. 
Eligible Recipients

​The following types of organizations are eligible to receive this grant—mass transit districts, transportation districts, federally recognized tribes, or a city, county, special district, intergovernmental entity, or any other political subdivision or municipal or public corporation that provides public transportation service, as well as nonprofit organizations and private for-profit entities that provide public transportation services. 

Eligible Projects

​To be eligible for funding, projects must meet the following minimum requirements:​

  • ​Provide fixed route intercity bus service with the eastern terminus of Boise, Idaho and the western terminus at a minimum be The Dalles but may at the applicant’s discretion extend as far west as Portland. 
  • In Oregon, the service must provide meaningful connections to existing intercity bus service in Ontario, Baker City, La Grande, and Pendleton with an additional stop in Boardman, Stanfield, or Hermiston. The applicant may include additional stops on their proposed route. 
  • Service must be provided for a minimum of one year. 
  • Service must operate daily throughout the year seven days per week with at least one round trip per day. Applicants may propose not providing service on a limited number of low-travel holidays.  
  • Vehicles must have the ability to transport baggage. 
  • Vehicles must be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, including individuals who use wheelchairs. Vehicles must be compliant with both 49 CFR 38.23 and subpart G of Part 38. Intercity bus service operated by private entities using over-the-road buses, characterized by an elevated passenger deck over a baggage compartment, is subject to the DOT’s ADA over-the-road bus regulations, at 49 CFR Part 37 subpart H (49 CFR 37.181 et seq.). 
  • The service provider must be eligible to transport passengers across state lines in compliance with FMCSA regulations.  
  • General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data for this service must be maintained and publicly available.  

Eligible project activities 

​Eligible project activities include project administration, planning, capital expenses, and operating expenses directly related to operating this route. 
Application

Application Form and Instructions​

For More Information

​The Public Transportation Division will host a webinar 9:00 – 10:00 a.m., May 20 to offer an overview of this call for projects, highlight key components of the application and answer questions. Additionally, a drop-in question and answer session will be held from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m., May 27. 

Application info session webinar at 9:00 a.m., May 20. ​

Drop-in Q&A session at 1:00 p.m., May 27.  

Please email your questions about this solicitation to Ryan Phillips​. 
Additional Resources
Award Announcement

​Award​

Purpose

This solicitation is for two separate competitive statewide solicitations; the STIF Discretionary Fund and the Statewide Transit Network Program. Review the STIF D​iscretionary and Statewide Network Program Guidance and Grant Application Instructions document in the Application section.

Timeline

Application deadline has passed.

Funding

Section 122 of House Bill 2017 provides statewide funding for public transportation service. Proceeds from the payroll tax will be deposited into the Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund. The Oregon Department of Revenue began assessing the tax July 1, 2018. ODOT is administering the STIF Discretionary Fund program with five percent of these revenues and the STN Program through a combination of four percent of STIF revenues and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5311(f) moneys. The Oregon Transportation Commission will decide which projects to award funding.

Match Requirements

The match requirements for projects awarded through this solicitation will vary based on the project type and program funds used to fund the project. STIF Discretionary and Statewide Transportation Network-STIF Intercommunity Fund applicants must demonstrate their ability to provide at least 20 percent of the Project’s total costs. Projects that meet certain characteristics may be eligible for a 10 percent match rate.

For projects receiving Section 5311(f) funds, applicants must demonstrate their ability to provide a 50 percent match of the net cost for operations projects and a 20 percent match of the net cost for capital projects and project administration.

Eligible Recipients

Applicants to these fund programs must be Public Transportation Service Providers, as defined by OAR 732-040-0005(24) or, as relevant to FTA 5311(f) funding, entities eligible to receive FTA Section 5311(f) funding. Eligible STIF Discretionary Fund applicants may contract with a non-profit or for-profit public transportation provider following procurement requirements applicable to the source(s) of project funding.

Eligible Projects

Projects eligible for funding under the STIF Discretionary fund include but are not limited to capital projects such as vehicles, facilities, equipment, and technology; and management, planning, and research.

Projects eligible to receive grants under the STIF Intercommunity Fund or FTA Section 5311(f) Intercity Fund include, but are not limited to, capital projects such as vehicles, facilities, equipment and technology, as well as mobility management, planning, research, pilot and ongoing operations projects that support intercommunity and intercity bus services.

STIF funding is not available for light rail capital expenses.

Application
STIF Discretionary and STN Grant Application
Letter of Interest (LOI) Form​
STIF Discretionary and STN Grant Application Instructions​

For More Information

STIF Discretionary and STN Guidebook

Additional Resources

Federal NEPA Form​
State NEPA Form
FTA Circular 9040.1H
STIF Fund Applicant Page
Training Webinar Recording​​​​
Federal Grants FAQs, Aug. 2024​​

Award Announcement

2025-27 STIF Discretionary Awards
2025-27 STIF Intercommunity Discretionary Awards
2025-27 5311(f) Intercity Discretionary Awards​

Purpose

This program funds the replacement and purchase of buses, bus equipment, and bus-related facilities for transportation providers in small urban and rural areas with population of 199,999 or less.

Timeline
Application deadline has passed.​

Grant agreements executed once Federal funds are secured.​

Pending FTA approval, the grant period will be October 1, 2024 - September 30, 2028.


Funding

Funding is provided by FTA's 5339 Bus and Bus Facilities Program which is distributed to states in an amount set by Congress. Distribution to local agencies is done through an ODOT discretionary selection process.

Match Requirements
Vehicles: local share 15 percent, federal share 85 percent
Vehicle-related equipment and facilities that comply with Clean Air Act or Americans with Disabilities Act: local share 10%, federal share 90%
Bicycle facilities: local share 10%, federal share 90%
All others: local share 20 percent, federal share 80 percent


Eligible Recipients

Eligible recipients are general public service providers who operate in small urban and rural communities with a population of 199,999 or less.

Eligible Projects
Eligible projects for the 2024 solicitation include replacing, rebuilding, or purchasing buses and related equipment as well as construction of bus-related facilities. For vehicle replacement or right-sizing, the vehicle to be replaced or right-sized must meet or exceed the age or mileage standard for the vehicle type at the time of procurement. Eligible projects include:  

- Acquisition of buses for fleet and service expansion 
- Bus maintenance and administrative facilities 
- Transfer facilities 
- Bus malls 
- Transportation centers 
- Intermodal terminals 
- Park-and-ride stations 
- Acquisition of replacement vehicles 
- Bus rebuilds 
- Passenger amenities such as passenger shelters and bus stop signs 
- Accessory and miscellaneous equipment such as: mobile radio units, supervisory vehicles, fare boxes, computers, and shop and garage equipment 
- Clean fuels projects
- Introduction of new technology: transit-related technology, such as innovative and improved products that provide benefits to transit, including Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
- Bicycle facilities
- Joint development improvements

​


Application
5339 Discretionary Application Instructions​

Application Link



For More Information

Contact your Regional Transit Coordinator​.

​
Additional Resources

2024-26 Mid-Cycle Discretionary Grant Solicitation Guidance​
​Federal Transit Administration 5339 Program Overview
​Federal Grants FAQs, Aug. 2024​

Award Announcement

2024-26 5339 Grant Awards​​

Purpose

This solicitation supports projects for operations, mobility management, purchased service, and preventive maintenance for transportation providers serving seniors and individuals with disabilities in rural areas.

Timeline
Application deadline has passed.​

Grant agreements executed once Federal funds are secured.​


Funding
Funding comes from the Federal Transit Administration's 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities program which is distributed to states using a population-based formula in an amount set by Congress. Distribution to local agencies is done through an ODOT discretionary selection process.
Match Requirements
Operating projects: local share 50 percent, federal share 50 percent
Other projects: local share 20 percent, federal share 80 percent


Eligible Recipients

Public transportation agencies providing rural services.

 

Eligible Projects

Operations, mobility management, purchased service, and preventive maintenance.

Application

​Discretionary Application Link
Discretionary Application Instructions​

For More Information

Contact your Regional Transit Coordinator​.

​
Additional Resources

​2024-26 Mid-Cycle Discretionary Grant Solicitation Guidance​
Federal Transit Administration 5310 Program Overview
Federal Transit Administration Circulars​
Federal Grants FAQs, Aug. 2024​​

Award Announcement

2024-26 5310 Grant Awards​​

Purpose

The purpose of Section 5304 grant funding is to support planning projects that lead to improved mobility and transit access for citizens, more livable and economically vibrant communities, and more efficient and well-coordinated public transportation systems. 

Timeline
Application deadline has passed.​

Pending FTA approval, the grant period for planning projects will be October 1, 2024 - September 30, 2026.


Funding

Expected: $300,000. Final amount may vary. Funds are awarded through a competitive selection process. 

Match Requirements

​Local share is 20 percent, federal share is 80 percent

Eligible Recipients

Transportation agencies that serve rural areas (population less than 50,000). 

Eligible Projects
Planning projects leading to improved mobility and accessibility for Oregonians. Proposed projects should align with the goals and priorities of regional transit plans and the Oregon Transportation Plan, the Oregon Transit Network Report, and/or the ODOT Strategic Action Plan. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to: 

- Transit needs assessments
- Short-range transit development plans
- System design plans
- Civil rights plans
- Transit marketing plans
- Site selection studies
- Transit service implementation plans
- Ridership surveys
- Service coordination plans
- Environmental impact analyses
- Asset management plans​



Application

Discretionary Application Link​

Discretionary Application Instructions​

For More Information

​Contact your Regional Transit Coordinator​.


Additional Resources

2024-26 Mid-Cycle Discretionary Grant Solicitation Guidance​
​​Federal Transit Administration Metropolitan and Statewide Planning Program
Federal Transit Administration Program Circular
Federal Grants FAQs, Aug. 2024​​

Award Announcement

2024-26 5304 Grant Awards​

Purpose

The main purpose of the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Low or No Emission Program (Low-No Program) is to support the transition of the nation’s transit fleet to the lowest polluting and most energy efficient transit vehicles. The Low-No Program provides funding to state and local governmental authorities for the purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses. This also includes acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities.

Timeline
Application Deadline has passed
​
Funding

Funding comes from the FTA's 5339 Program with available funds of $1.10 billion in federal fiscal year 2023.

Project Budget: Applicants are encouraged to identify scaled funding options in case insufficient funding is available to fund a project at the full requested amount. If an applicant indicates that a project is scalable, the applicant must provide an appropriate minimum funding amount that will fund an eligible project that achieves the objectives of the program and meets all relevant program requirements. The applicant must provide a clear explanation of how the project budget would be affected by a reduced award. FTA may award a lesser amount whether or not a scalable option is provided.

Match Requirements

For vehicles, the match is 15 percent local funds. For Bus-related Equipment and Facilities (such as recharging or refueling facilities), the match is 10 percent local funds.

Acceptable match sources are: cash from non-government sources other than revenues from providing public transportation services; revenues derived from the sale of advertising and concessions; amounts received under a service agreement with a state or local social service agency or private social service organization; revenues generated from value capture financing mechanisms; funds from an undistributed cash surplus; replacement or depreciation cash fund or reserve; new capital; or in-kind contributions. In addition, transportation development credits or documentation of in-kind match may substitute for local match if identified in the application.

Eligible Recipients

An eligible applicant is a designated recipient of FTA 5307 grants as well as states, local governmental authorities, and Indian tribes. ODOT will be applying on behalf of subrecipients who are not 5307 direct recipients.

Eligible Projects

Purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses, and acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities.

FTA will consider the quality and extent to which applications demonstrate how the proposed project will: reduce energy consumption, reduce harmful emissions and reduce direct carbon emissions. Applicants must demonstrate how the proposed project is consistent with local and regional long range planning documents and local government priorities. Applicants must identify the source of the local cost share and describe whether such funds are currently available for the project or will need to be secured if the project is selected for funding.

Applications will be evaluated based on the quality and extent to which they demonstrate how the proposed project will address an unmet need for capital investment in vehicles and/or supporting facilities. For example: an applicant may demonstrate that it requires additional charging facilities for low- or no-emission vehicles, that it intends to replace existing vehicles that have exceeded their minimum useful life, or that it requires additional vehicles to meet current ridership demands.

Application

​Supplemental Form Link​

​
For More Information

Email PTDApplications@odot.oregon.gov or call 503-986-3410.​​

Additional Resources

For more information about the Low-No Program visit the Section 5339(c) webpage​.

FY2024 Notice of Funding Opportunity​

Award Announcement

​Awarding in 2024.

Purpose

The purpose of the Bus and Bus Infrastructure Program is to assist in the financing of buses and bus facilities capital projects, including replacing, rehabilitating, purchasing or leasing buses or related equipment, and rehabilitating, purchasing, constructing or leasing bus-related facilities.

Timeline
Application deadline has passed.​
Funding

Funding comes from the FTA's 5339(b) Program with available funds of more than $390 million for this solicitation.

Scalable Project Budget: Applicants are encouraged to identify scaled funding options in case insufficient funding is available to fund a project at the full requested amount. If an applicant indicates that a project is scalable, the applicant must provide an appropriate minimum funding amount that will fund an eligible project that achieves the objectives of the program and meets all relevant program requirements. The applicant must provide a clear explanation of how the project budget would be affected by a reduced award. FTA may award a lesser amount whether or not a scalable option is provided. ​

Match Requirements

For Vehicles, the match is 15 percent local funds. For Bus-related Equipment and Facilities (such as recharging or refueling facilities, including clean fuel or alternative-fuel vehicle-related equipment), the match is 10 percent local funds.

Eligible sources of local match include the following:

  • cash from non-Government sources other than revenues from providing public transportation services;
  • revenues derived from the sale of advertising and concessions;​
  • amounts received under a service agreement with a State or local social service agency or private social service organization;
  • revenues generated from value capture financing mechanisms; or funds from an undistributed cash surplus;
  • replacement or depreciation cash fund or reserve;
  • In addition, transportation development credits or documentation of in-kind match may substitute for local match if identified in the application.
Eligible Recipients

Eligible applicants include designated recipients that allocate funds to fixed route bus operators, states or local governmental entities that operate fixed route bus service, and Indian tribes. Eligible subrecipients include all otherwise eligible applicants and private nonprofit organizations engaged in public transportation.

Oregon RPTD will submit a statewide application on behalf of public agencies, private nonprofit organizations engaged in public transportation in rural areas, and projects proposed by Indian tribes; all proposals for projects in rural (non-urbanized) areas must be submitted by a State.

Eligible Projects

Eligible projects are capital projects to replace, rehabilitate, purchase, or lease buses, vans, and related equipment, and capital projects to rehabilitate, purchase, construct, or lease bus-related facilities.

Applications will be evaluated based on the quality and extent to which they demonstrate how the proposed project addresses:

  • Demonstration of Need; an unmet need for capital investment in bus vehicles and/or supporting facilities.
  • Demonstration of Benefits; how will the project improve the condition of the transit system, improve the reliability of transit service for its riders, and enhance access and mobility within the service area.
  • Planning and Local/Regional Prioritization; how the proposed project will be consistent with local and regional long-range planning documents and local government priorities; including long-range transportation plans.
  • Local Financial Commitment; identify the source of the local cost share and describe whether such funds are currently available for the project or will need to be secured if the project is selected for funding.
  • Project Implementation Strategy; project ready to implement within a reasonable period of time and whether the applicant’s proposed implementation plans are reasonable and complete.
  • Technical, Legal and Financial Capacity: applicants must demonstrate that they have the technical, legal and financial capacity to undertake the project.
  • Bus facility and equipment projects (replacement, rehabilitation, and/or expansion): provide the age and condition of the asset to be rehabilitated or replaced and its minimum useful life.
  • Bus projects (replacement, rehabilitation or expansion): provide the age, condition and performance of the asset(s) to be replaced or rehabilitated.
  • Service expansion: provide the proposed service expansion and the benefits for transit riders and the community from the new service.
Application
Letter of Intent Link​
Supplemental Form Link​
For More Information

Email PTDApplications@odot.oregon.gov​ or call 503-986-3885.​

​
Additional Resources

For more information about the Bus and Bus Facilities Program visit the Section 5339(b) webpage​.

Award Announcement

Awarding in 2024.

Purpose

​Bridges gaps and resolves barriers between Oregon's veterans living in rural areas and the healthcare benefits they've earned.

This program uses lottery funds from the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs dedicated by the Oregon Legislature. ODOT cannot use these funds for maintenance or agency operations.

Timeline

Application deadline has passed.

Funding

​Total amount available: up to $1.109 million

Match Requirements

​There is no local match required for this program. Coordinated applications between STIF Agencies or through purchased services contracts with common providers is encouraged.

Eligible Recipients

Transit providers and Counties with service areas featuring rural census tracts (as defined by Rural-Urban Commuter codes 4 through 10). All nine of Oregon's federally-recognized Tribes are eligible, irrespective of rurality.​

Eligible Projects

​Operations, contract purchased services, mobility management, and planning.

Application

The application deadline has passed.


For More Information

2025-2027 RVHT Grant Guidance​


Additional Resources

​The Rural Veterans Healthcare Transportation Grant Program is a partnership between Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs and ODOT Public Transportation Division, under lottery funding appropriated to House Bill 2139.

Award Announcement

RVHT 2025-27 Biennium Awards​


Purpose

​The purpose of this program is to fund the replacement or right-sizing of vehicles that have met or exceeded their useful life standards.

Timeline

Application deadline has passed.

Grant agreements executed once Federal funds are secured.


Funding

​The Oregon Transportation Commission has allocated Federal Highway Administration Surface Transportation Block Grant funding to support this program. Funds will be transferred to FTA section 5307, 5310, or 5311 programs after award based on recipient eligibility.

Total funding available: $9 million​

  • $4 million for Section 5307
  • $5 million for Section 5310 and 5311 projects, and pending funding availability, Section 5307 projects​
Match Requirements

​​Local share 10.27 percent, federal share 89.73 percent

Eligible Recipients

​Entities eligible to receive Federal Transit Administration section 5307, 5310, or 5311 funding.

Eligible Projects

Vehicle replacement or right-sizing of vehicles in which ODOT holds a security interest.

Application
​Discretionary Application Link
​ Discretionary Vehicle Replacement Application Instructions
For More Information
Contact your Regional Transit Coordinator​.​

Additional Resources
2024-26 Mid-Cycle Discretionary Grant Solicitation Guidance​
Federal Grants FAQs, Aug. ​2024
Award Announcement

​2024-26 Vehicle Replacement Grant Awards​

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Resources




Northern Oregon Intercity Bus Service Application Form and Instructions, May 2025