Public Transportation Funding Opportunities

The following funding opportunities support the delivery of public transportation in Oregon and are managed by the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Funding Opportunities

Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) Formula Fund

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose

This solicitation is for the STIF Formula Fund, which is intended to expand and improve public transportation services in Oregon. Review the Formula Fund Guidance and Application Instructions document for more information.

Timeline

The STIF Formula Fund Guidance and Application Instructions and the STIF Plan (application form) are available now. Formula Fund submittals must be received by ODOT no later than February 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.

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. The Oregon Department of Transportation will implement the Formula Fund program with 90 percent of these revenues distributed by formula to Qualified Entities, upon Oregon Transportation Commission approval of a STIF plan.

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, per OAR 732-040-0005. A Public Transportation Service Provider or any non-profit, private for-profit, or public entity is eligible to receive STIF Formula funds by performing work for a Qualified Entity or a Public Transportation Service Provider, which supports a project in the Qualified Entity’s STIF Plan.

A map of Qualified Entities is located in the STIF Rulemaking Document Library on the STIF webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/RPTD/Pages/STIF.aspx.

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 including, but not limited to, the following:

Creation of new systems and services with origins, destinations or stops in Oregon;
Maintenance or continuation of systems and services, under certain circumstances; and
Planning for and development of a Local Plan or future STIF Plan to improve public transportation service.

STIF moneys are primarily intended to fund the expansion or improvement of public transportation in Oregon and priority will be given to plans that improve or expand services.

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 Plans (applications) must be received by ODOT no later than February 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.

For More Information

STIF Formula Fund Guidance and Application Instructions

STIF Plan (application form)

PTSP Project Application Template (OPTIONAL). This template may be used by a Qualified Entity, at the Qualified Entity’s sole discretion, to accept Formula Fund project applications from Public Transportation Service Providers.

Email Maggie Charles, STIF Formula Program Coordinator, or call 971-375-3920.

Additional Resources

STIF Substantially Compliant Considerations for Service Preservation, Oct. 2020

STIF Formula Fund Reporting Overview Webinar, May 2019

STIF Formula Fund Reporting Overview Webinar Presentation, May 2019

STIF Formula Fund Reporting Requirements Acronyms, May 2019

STIF Formula Fund Reporting Requirements Q & A, May 2019

STIF Formula Fund Reporting Requirements Overview

STIF Guidance for Determining Whether Expenditures are Substantially Compliant and Consistent with STIF Plan

STIF Agreed-Upon Audit Procedures

OTC STIF Plan Rejection Considerations, Oct. 19, 2018

How to Complete the STIF Template Webinar Recording, August 30, 2018

STIF Public Engagement Guidance

STIF Advisory Committee Bylaws Template

STIF Rules Overview Webinar Recording, July 12, 2018

STIF Rules Overview Webinar PowerPoint, July 12, 2018

STIF Rules Overview Fact Sheet (print version)

STIF Oregon Administrative Rules

STIF Oregon Administrative Rules (print version)

STIF Fact Sheet

Award Announcement

FTA Discretionary Low or no Emission Program 5339(c)

Application deadline to ODOT is March 29, 2021. Direct application deadline to FTA is April 12, 2021

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 to ODOT is March 29, 2021. Direct application to FTA deadline is April 12, 2021
Funding: Funding comes from the FTA's 5339 Program with available funds of $180 million for this solicitation

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: Application Link
For More Information: Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-3410.
Additional Resources: For more information about the Low-No Program and application process, please view the webinar.
Award Announcement: Awarding in 2021.

Special Transportation Fund

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose: This state fund supports transportation services for people who are senior and people of any age with disabilities.
Timeline: Awarding 2021-2023 biennium formula funding in July 2021.
Funding: Funds distributed via the Special Transportation Fund Formula Program (STF) are awarded every two years using a population-based formula. There is no Special Transportation Fund Discretionary Program for the 2021 - 2023 biennium. This solicitation will be the final distribution of STF funds. SB1601, passed in a July 2020 special legislative session, directed consolidation of this fund with the Special Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) by July 1, 2023.
Funding comes from various State of Oregon sources.
Match Requirements: No local match is required for Special Transportation Formula Funds. The state determines if the discretionary projects will require local match.
Eligible Recipients: There are 42 Special Transportation Fund Agencies eligible for Special Transportation funds. Special Transportation Fund Agencies distribute funds to subrecipients.
Eligible Projects: Funds may be used for any purpose directly related to transportation services, including transit operations, capital equipment, planning, travel training and other transit-related purposes.
Application: FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance
For More Information: FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance
Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-4222.
Additional Resources: Special Transportation Fund Program Guidebook
Award Announcement: 2019-21 STF Award Announcement

5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose: This federal fund source supports public transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities by funding eligible capital, purchased service, and preventive maintenance projects for transportation providers.
Timeline: Awarding 2021-2023 biennium formula funding in July 2021.
Funding: Funds are awarded every two years using an established formula. Lead, or Special Transportation Fund Agencies recommend projects for funding.
Funding comes from the Federal Transit Administration’s Section 5310 program, which is distributed to states using a population-based formula in an amount set by Congress. Funding also comes from ODOT’s transfer of Federal Highway Administration Surface Transportation Block Grant funds to the Section 5310 program.
Match Requirements: Operating projects: local share 50 percent, federal share 50 percent (Applies only to the federal appropriation for Small Urban agencies.)
Other projects: local share 20 percent, federal share 80 percent
STBG Transfer projects: local share 10.27 percent, federal share 89.73 percent.
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. Funds may be used in all areas of the state.

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 projects include vehicle purchases, passenger shelters, purchased services, preventive maintenance, travel training, marketing programs, development of centralized call centers, and equipment that supports transportation to meet the special needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Projects must be derived from a local Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plan.
Application: FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance
For More Information: FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance
Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-3410.
Additional Resources: Federal Transit Administration 5310 Program Overview

Federal Transit Administration Circulars
Award Announcement: 2019-21 5310 Award Announcement

5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose: This program supports rural public transportation providers operating in areas with populations of fewer than 50,000 by financing operations, capital, project administration, preventive maintenance, planning, and mobility management projects.
Timeline: Awarding 2021-2023 biennium formula funding in July 2021.
Funding: The majority of funds are distributed every two years to pre-qualified agencies through a three-part formula which includes a base amount, passenger trips, and service miles.
Funding comes from the Federal Transit Administration 5311 program.
Match Requirements: Operations projects: local share 43.92 percent, federal share 56.08 percent
Capital, administration, preventive maintenance, planning, and mobility management projects: local share 10.27 percent, federal share 89.73 percent.
Eligible Recipients: Eligible recipients include public agencies, Indian tribes, or private nonprofit agencies operating general public transit services in rural areas that are not part of a designated urban area.
Private for-profit companies are not eligible for this program and may only participate as vendors with service contracts or agreements with an eligible recipient. Recipients are encouraged to consider including private for-profit transportation providers in their programs.
Eligible Projects: Eligible projects include operations, capital, project administration, preventive maintenance, planning, and mobility management. Projects must support general public transportation services.
Application: FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance
For More Information: FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance
Email Sharon Peerenboom or call 971-283-4578.
Additional Resources: Federal Transit Administration 5311 Program Overview
Federal Transit Administration Circulars
Award Announcement: 2019-21 5311 Award Announcement

Section 5304 Statewide Transportation Planning Grant Program

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose

This federal fund periodically provides grants for 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

Awarding 2021-23 biennium funding in July 2021.

Funding

Funds are awarded through a competitive selection process. There is approximately one million dollars in funding available.

Match Requirements

Local share is 20 percent, federal share is 80 percent

Eligible Recipients

Funds are awarded through a competitive selection process. There is approximately one million dollars in funding available.

Eligible Projects

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

FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance

For More Information

FY 2021-23 Application Instructions and Guidance

Contact your Regional Transit Coordinator.

Additional Resources

Federal Transit Administration Metropolitan and Statewide Planning Program
Federal Transit Administration Program Circular

Award Announcement

N/A

Section 5311/5311(f) Needs-Based CARES Grant Application

Applications due December 31, 2020

Purpose: This program funds projects to assist transit providers experiencing negative impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic and supports operating, capital, and other expenses generally eligible under the Section 5311 and 5311(f) programs.
Funding comes from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds apportioned to Oregon by the Federal Transit Administration.
Timeline: Grant agreements for awarded projects will be executed over the course of the remaining months in 2020.
Funding: Total amount available: approximately $31,200,000
Match Requirements: No Match Required
Eligible Recipients: Eligible recipients are mass transit districts, transportation districts, Indian tribes, cities, counties, special districts, intergovernmental entities, nonprofit transit providers, for-profit transit providers, or any other political subdivision or municipal or public corporation that provides public transportation services.

* * * Recipients of ONBC grants are required to meet, or to demonstrate the capacity to meet, Section 5311 and 5311(f) program requirements prior to grant agreement execution. * * *
Eligible Projects: Eligible projects include those that support Section 5311 or 5311(f) eligible transit activities for the general public and which are incurred on or after January 20, 2020 in response to economic or other conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Federal Transit Administration generally considers that all Section 5311 and 5311(f) eligible expenses incurred after January 20, 2020 are to prevent, prepare for, or respond to the COVID-19 disease.
Application: Application Guidance
Application Link
For More Information: For more information on the Federal Transit Administration CARES act, please visit the FTA CARES Act page.
For more information, email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us, ODOTPTDReporting@odot.state.or.us, or your RTC - or call 503-986-3410.
Additional Resources: Federal Transit Administration Section 5311 Program Overview
Federal Transit Administration Frequently Asked Questions
Award Announcement: Recommended Awards - Updated 2/8/2020

Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund Discretionary and Statewide Transit Network Program

Application deadline has passed, awarding in 2021

Purpose: This solicitation is for two separate competitive statewide solicitations; the STIF Discretionary Fund and the Statewide Transit Network Program. Review the STIF Discretionary and Statewide Network Program Guidance and Grant Application Instructions document in the Timeline and For More Information sections.
Timeline: The STIF Discretionary and Statewide Network Program Guidance and Grant Application Instructions and Discretionary and STN Application Form are available now. Grant applications are due to ODOT no later than November 2, 2020.
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: 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.

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.

STIF funding is not available for light rail capital expenses.
Application: Applications for funds under this solicitation must be received by ODOT no later than November 2, 2020.
For More Information: STIF Discretionary and STN Solicitation Webinar Video Oct. 5, 2020
STIF Discretionary and STN Solicitation Webinar PowerPoint Oct. 5, 2020
STIF Discretionary and Statewide Network Program Guidance and Grant Application Instructions

STIF Discretionary Fund and Statewide Transit Network Program Solicitation Schedule

Email Patrick DePriest, STIF Intercommunity Coordinator, or call 503-986-3312.
Additional Resources: Key Transit Hubs, September 2020

STIF Rules Overview Fact Sheet (print version)

STIF Oregon Administrative Rules

STIF Oregon Administrative Rules (print version)

STIF Fact Sheet

STIF Discretionary and Statewide Transit Network Evaluation Criteria Framework: FY 2021-23
Award Announcement: FY 2019-21 STIF Discretionary and Statewide Transit Network Grant Awards

Rural Veterans Healthcare Transportation Program

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose: Bridges gaps and resolves barriers between Oregon's veterans living in rural areas and the healthcare benefits they've earned.
Timeline: Applications due September 18, 2020
Funding: Total amount available: $500,000
Minimum award amount: $10,000
Maximum award amount: $50,000
Match Requirements: There is no local match required for this program. Coordinated applications between STF Agencies or through purchased services contracts with common providers is encouraged.
Eligible Recipients: STF Agencies with service areas featuring rural census tracts (as defined by Rural-Urban Commuter codes 4 through 10) that are not presently served by a Highly Rural Veterans Transportation program through the VA. All nine of Oregon's federally-recognized Tribes are eligible, irrespective of rurality.
Interactive map of eligible agencies
Eligible Projects: Operations and contract purchased services.
Application
For More Information: RVHT Solicitation Guidance
RVHT Second Round Solicitation Guidance
Webinar Recording
Password: RVHT2020program
Webinar Presentation PPT
Additional Resources: The Rural Veterans Healthcare Transportation Grant Program is a partnership between Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs and ODOT Public Transportation Division. Funding will be offered for one fiscal year beginning 07/01/2020.
Interactive map of eligible agencies
Award Announcement: RVHT Round One Awards

5339 Bus and Bus Facilities Discretionary Program

Application deadline has passed

Purpose: This program funds the replacement and purchase of buses, bus equipment, and bus-related facilities such as signs and shelters for transportation providers in small urban and rural areas with population of 199,999 or less.
Timeline: Non-Vehicle Replacement Application deadline has passed
Vehicle Replacement Application deadline has passed

Grant agreements executed July 1, 2020
Funding: Funding comes from the 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: local share 20 percent, federal share 80 percent
Eligible Recipients: Eligible recipients are general public service providers who operate fixed routes in small urban and rural communities with a population of 199,999 or less.
Eligible Projects: Eligible projects for the 2020-22 solicitation include vehicle replacement, vehicle right-sizing, vehicle expansion, equipment, signs, and shelters.
Application: Discretionary Vehicle Replacement Application Link

Webinar November 19, 2019

Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Webinar Questions and Answers
For More Information: Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-3410.
Additional Resources: Federal Transit Administration 5339 Program Overview
Federal Transit Administration 5339 Program Circular
Award Announcement: 2020 5339 Vehicle Expansion Awards
2020 5339 Vehicle Replacement Awards
2020 5339 Facilities, Equipment, Signs and Shelters Awards
2018 5339 Vehicle Discretionary Awards

2018 5339 Vehicle Expansion Discretionary Awards

2018 5339 Facility, Equipment and Shelters

5307 Mass Transit Vehicle Replacement

Application deadline has passed

Purpose: This federal fund keeps urban fixed-route bus fleets in good condition and replaces large buses which are in service past their established useful life.
Timeline: Application deadline has passed.
Funding: Funds are distributed through a population-based formula. Funding comes from Surface Transportation Program funds from the Federal Highway Administration and 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Grants from the Federal Transit Administration.
Project selection is done by an ODOT evaluation committee using a point ranking system. Approved funding allocations are applied for directly with FTA by the awarded agencies.
Match Requirements: Local share is 10.27 percent, federal share 89.73 percent.
Eligible Recipients: Eligible recipients are urban area general public service providers who directly receive Federal Transit Administration 5307 funds.
Eligible Projects: Eligible projects include replacement and right-sizing of Category A and B vehicles.
Application: Discretionary Vehicle Replacement Application Link

Webinar November 19, 2019

Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Webinar Questions and Answers
For More Information: Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-3410.
Additional Resources: Federal Transit Administration 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Grants Program Overview
Federal Transit Administration 5307 Urbanized Area Formula Grants Circular
Award Announcement: 2020 5307 Discretionary Awards
2018 5307 Discretionary Awards

STP Discretionary Bus Replacement Program

Application deadline has passed

Purpose: This program funds the replacement of transportation buses for transportation providers in all areas of Oregon.
Timeline: Application deadline has passed.
Grant agreements executed July 1, 2020
Funding: Funding comes from Federal Highway Administration Surface Transportation Block Grant Funds transferred into the 5310 Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program, the 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas Program and/or the 5307 Mass Transit Vehicle Replacement Program, depending on eligibility of awarded projects.

Project selection is done by an ODOT evaluation committee using a point ranking system.
Match Requirements: Local share is 10.27 percent, federal share is 89.73 percent.
Eligible Recipients: Eligible recipients are Urban, Small Urban, and Rural public transportation agencies
Eligible Projects: Eligible projects are vehicle replacements that were purchased through ODOT Rail & Public Transit Division and must have ODOT on the title as first security interest holder.
Application: Discretionary Vehicle Replacement Application Link

Webinar November 19, 2019

Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Webinar Questions and Answers
For More Information: Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-3410.
Additional Resources
Award Announcement: 2020 STP Discretionary Awards
2018 STP Discretionary Awards

Transportation and Growth Management (TGM) Program

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose: The mission of TGM is to support community efforts to expand transportation choices. By linking land use and transportation planning, TGM works with local governments to create vibrant, livable places in which people can walk, bike, take transit or drive where they want to go.
Timeline: Applications due June 6, 2019

Applications awarded August 2019
Funding: The TGM Program awards grants on an annual basis. TGM typically awards between $2 and $2.5 million per cycle. Projects are selected on a competitive basis within each of the five ODOT regions. The regional allocation – funds available for projects - is based on a formula that considers the number of cities and the population within a region. Grants generally have two-years for projects to be negotiated and completed. Award amounts generally range between $75,000 and $250,000.
Match Requirements: Local share is 12% of the total project cost. Grantees typically provide match in the form of cash or direct project costs, such as time and materials directly related to the project. Time that may be counted as project match includes that from grantee staff, grantee contract planners and engineers, or certain volunteers, such as project committee members. Communities defined as “distressed” by the Oregon Business Development Department may request a partial match waiver. The list of distressed communities is available online at: http://www.oregon4biz.com/Publications/Distressed-List/.
Eligible Recipients: Eligible applicants include cities, counties, councils of government on behalf of a city or county, and tribal governments. Certain special districts are eligible, such as transportation districts, metropolitan planning organizations, ports, mass transit districts, parks and recreation districts, and metropolitan service districts. School districts, and public colleges and universities, may be eligible as part of a joint application with a local government for an otherwise eligible project. Eligible applicants may join together to propose a project, such as a multi-county TSP or multi-city or city-county corridor plan.
Eligible Projects: TGM grants are for planning work leading to local policy decisions. Projects should result in the development of an adoption-ready plan or land use regulation or amendments to an existing plan or land use regulation. Projects that primarily do research or outreach, study an issue, compile data, or inventory information are generally not eligible for grant funding. TGM grants also cannot fund preliminary engineering, engineering, or construction work. If in doubt, discuss with your Region TGM planner about whether your proposed work is eligible.
Application
For More Information: Email Elizabeth Ledet or call 503-986-3205.
Additional Resources: Find the Racial and Ethnic Impact Statement, Application Packet, examples of successful 2018 TGM applications, a list of all TGM grants to date, and help for developing a project approach and budget at: https://www.oregon.gov/LCD/TGM/Pages/Planning-Grants.aspx.
Award Announcement: 2018 TGM Awards

Technical Assistance Program Scholarships

Applications accepted year-round

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 Transit Section 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 Transit Section. The number of scholarships awarded for a specific event or to an agency may be limited. The Public Transit Section 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)).
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.
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 Jaimie Baldwin or call 503-986-3669.
Additional Resources: National Rural Transit Assistance Program
Federal Transit Administration Circulars
Award Announcement: Accepted applicants notified by email.

FTA Discretionary Buses and Bus Facilities Infrastructure Investment Program 5339(b)

Application deadline has passed.

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

Applying through ODOT: Due to ODOT March 25, 2020

Direct Recipients: Due to FTA April 29, 2020

Funding

Funding comes from the FTA's 5339(b) Program with available funds of $454.6 million for this solicitation, with a minimum of 10 percent, $45.5 million, will be awarded to projects located in rural areas.

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

For More Information

Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-3885.

Additional Resources

For more information about the Bus and Bus Facilities Program and application process, please visit the FTA Buses and Bus Facilities Infrastructure Investment Program FY 2020 Notice of Funding.

Award Announcement

Awarding in 2020

2018 5339(b) Awards

Accelerating Innovative Mobility (AIM) Challenge Grants

Application deadline has passed.

Purpose

Explore and validate forward-thinking approaches to improve transit system design, service, and financing.
Provide funding to transit agencies in all types of communities—urban, suburban, rural— to identify, test, and prove out new approaches, technologies and service models.
Establish a national network of public transportation stakeholders that are incorporating innovative approaches and business models to improve mobility and that will share their project results.
Identify and promote the most promising and effective innovations that can be implemented more broadly through FTA’s capital programs.

Timeline

Preliminary intent due April 6, 2020
Due to FTA May 18, 2020

Funding

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the availability of $11 million in Public Transportation Innovation funds to support innovation throughout the transit industry by promoting forward-thinking approaches to improve transit system design, service, and financing.

Match Requirements

The Federal share of project costs under this program is limited to 80 percent. Applications may seek a lower Federal contributions. The applicant must provide the local share of the net project costs in cash, or in-kind and must document in its application the source of the local match.

Eligible Recipients

Private for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, including shared-use mobility providers, technology system suppliers and integrator, automated vehicle technology providers, property managers and developers, and others;
Private operators of transportation services, such as employee shuttle services, airport connector services, university transportation systems, or parking and tolling or airports authorities;
Other operators of public transportation, including public transportation agencies, State/local government DOTs, and Federally recognized Indian tribes.
Bus or vehicle manufacturers or suppliers;
Banking or financial institutions;
State or local government entities, including multi-jurisdictional partnerships, and organizations such as a Metropolitan Planning Organization; or
Other organizations including research consortia or not-for-profit industry organizations, institutions of higher education, and others.

Eligible Projects

Notice solicits applications for AIM Challenge Grant projects that demonstrate innovative technologies, applications, practices, and/or service models that can lead to more efficient public transportation service, better mobility for individuals, and enhance the overall rider experience, with special emphases on innovative service delivery models, creative financing, novel partnerships and integrated payment solutions. Applicants are also encouraged to submit applications with other innovative models and ideas that may not fall into one of these areas.

Application

For More Information

FTA will hold a webinar to provide additional information on AIM Challenge Grants, including how to apply and how applications will be evaluated 10-11 p.m. PT Thursday, April 2, 2020. Register.

For further information concerning the notice, contact FTA Research office via email at AIMChallenge@dot.gov, or please contact Ms. Christina Gikakis, Office of Mobility Innovation, 202–366–2637, or christina.gikakis@dot.gov.

Additional Resources

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Award Announcement

5311 and 5311(f) Transit Network and Intercity

Application deadline has passed: Awarding with STN Discretionary in 2021.

Purpose: For the 2017-19 biennium, we shifted from funding an Intercity Program with an exclusively 5311(f) federal funding source to a Transit Network and Intercity Program funded primarily with 5311(f) funds.

The Transit Network and Intercity Program now encompasses the former Intercity Program purpose and eligible activities and expands it to include projects that support the statewide transit network, but might not meet 5311(f) requirements.
Timeline: Awarded 2017-2019 biennium funding in July 2017.
Funding: Funds are available through a competitive discretionary grant process based on statewide program criteria.

This program utilizes Federal Transit Administration Intercity 5311(f) funds and other funds. The mix of funding allows greater flexibility in Transit Network and Intercity Program projects.
Match Requirements: Capital projects: local share 20 percent, federal share 80 percent
Operating projects: local share 50 percent, federal share 50 percent
Eligible Recipients: Eligible recipients include agencies, public entities, Indian tribes, and private for-profit agencies that provide transit service.

Grants will not be awarded to support fixed route transit service without a process in place to create and maintain Google Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data that describe the service.
Eligible Projects: Regional connector services, planning, marketing, coordination, preventive maintenance, projects that support key transit hubs, and capital assistance for buses and shelters.
Application: Application deadline has passed.
For More Information: Email Matthew Barnes or call 503-986-4051.
Additional Resources: Federal Transit Administration Circulars
Award Announcement: 2017-19 Transit Network and Intercity Award Announcement

2015-17 5311(f) Award Announcement

5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Discretionary Program

Application deadline has passed

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 July 1, 2020
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: Eligible projects include operations, mobility management, purchased service, and preventive maintenance
Application: Webinar November 19, 2019
Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Webinar Questions and Answers
For More Information: Email PTDApplications@odot.state.or.us or call 503-986-3410.
Additional Resources: Federal Transit Administration 5310 Program Overview
Federal Transit Administration Circulars
Award Announcement: 2020 5310 Discretionary Awards
2018 5310 Discretionary Awards

First Time Applicants

Contact your area's Regional Transit Coordinator for more information and to confirm your eligibility.

Public Transportation Funding Opportunities

Funding Opportunities

Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) Formula Fund

FTA Discretionary Low or no Emission Program 5339(c)

Special Transportation Fund

5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas

Section 5304 Statewide Transportation Planning Grant Program

Section 5311/5311(f) Needs-Based CARES Grant Application

Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund Discretionary and Statewide Transit Network Program

Rural Veterans Healthcare Transportation Program

5339 Bus and Bus Facilities Discretionary Program

5307 Mass Transit Vehicle Replacement

STP Discretionary Bus Replacement Program

Transportation and Growth Management (TGM) Program

Technical Assistance Program Scholarships

FTA Discretionary Buses and Bus Facilities Infrastructure Investment Program 5339(b)

Accelerating Innovative Mobility (AIM) Challenge Grants

5311 and 5311(f) Transit Network and Intercity

5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Discretionary Program

Advance Notices and Trainings

Contact

News Alerts

First Time Applicants