TxDOT Awards $60 Million to Statewide Communities to Make Travel Easier for Seniors, Disabled Residents, Others

AUSTIN — The Texas Transportation Commission today awarded nearly $60 million in federal and state funds to enhance rural and urban mobility programs across the state. The programs provide services to seniors, people with disabilities and other transit-dependent individuals who need help getting to work, school, health care facilities, shopping and other important destinations. The transit agencies supported by these programs reported more than 34 million trips in 2013, which represents a 4.7-percent increase over the previous fiscal year.

“We are pleased to support these services that enhance independence and quality of life for individuals who may otherwise be unable to travel,” retired Lt. Gen. Joe Weber, USMC, TxDOT executive director. “Based on the statistics, there is an increasing demand for these types of mobility services and we are proud to work with our partners to meet this demand.”

The funds also help address congestion relief in rapidly growing metropolitan areas by providing park-and-ride commuter services, vanpools and other transportation options for those who own automobiles, but choose instead to commute via public transportation.

Each year, TxDOT administers state and federal public transportation grant programs totaling approximately $90 million. Many of these awards include transportation development credits that support eligible capital project investments, including vehicles, facilities, equipment and preventive maintenance.

For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Media Relations at MediaRelations@txdot.gov or (512) 463-8700.