Assistance Available to Help Communities Enhance Access to Transit

April 27, 2016

Applications Being Accepted for RTA Programs to Advance Capital Projects

CHICAGO – The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is issuing a Call for Projects for its Access to Transit Improvement Program. This program provides capital funding for small-scale projects that increase pedestrian and bicycle access to transit, such as sidewalks, bus shelters, bike racks and pedestrian crossings.  The program is intended to leverage RTA and local funds with federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) program funding to help implement recommendations contained in Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and RTA planning studies.  Successful applications to the Access to Transit Improvement Program will be bundled together as one application to the CMAQ program. 

“We are pleased to fund a program like this, that makes transit more accessible to riders,” said RTA Executive Director Leanne Redden. “As we continue to focus on the need for capital funding in our region, this type of collaboration with regional planning partners, leveraging existing funding, is critical to providing transit -related services that benefit riders.”

Last year, the RTA Board of Directors approved just over $1 million in RTA funds to leverage $4.2 million in federal CMAQ program funds for 11 access improvement projects through this program.

An information session will be held on Friday, April 29 at 9:30am at the RTA, 175 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 1650, Chicago. Potential applicants are invited to attend to learn more about the program and discuss potential projects.  Applications for the Access to Transit Improvement Program are due by 3 p.m. on October 20, 2016 and should be emailed to tabberth@RTAChicago.org. For a complete copy of the program requirements and the application guide, visit http://rtachicago.org/plans-programs/grants-projects/access-to-transit.