Untitled Document

Public Transportation Summit next week provides opportunity
to assess challenges, shape direction

Help to obtain public-transit funding is coming next week through the Public Transportation Summit hosted by the Idaho Transportation Department in Boise July 25-27. The summit will specifically be geared to agencies that qualify for federal transit grant funds from the ITD Public Transportation (PT) Office.

"The annual summit takes place as a means to promote coordination with agencies, local stakeholders, and organizations and provides an opportunity to educate and assist transit providers seeking federal funding," explained Juanita Risch, Grants Officer with ITD's PT Office. "The summit's strategic agenda is designed to help facilitate and maximize efficiencies in public transportation programs and offer unique insight into present and future opportunities in public transportation funding in Idaho."

These grant programs are specific to Section 5310 and 5311 for under-served areas or under-served populations, such as the elderly and disabled, as well as Section 5339 for addressing the state's capital needs.

Representatives from the PT Office will discuss each grant program area, focusing on eligibility, funding priorities, invoicing, and compliance requirements. Staff will also discuss safety, reporting, asset management, and procurement with attendees. To encourage thought-provoking topics the staff has put together a full two and a half days of technical assistance, a half-day training, workshops, and peer-to-peer networking opportunities.

Those with questions about the summit, or wishing to register, can contact Risch at 334-8875, or Juanita.Risch@itd.idaho.gov