CTAI receives grant to assist veterans with mobility needs

The Community Transportation Association of Idaho (CTAI) has selected Idaho-based M2 Traffic Management, LLC to develop a one-click transportation resource that will assist veterans, human service agencies, and others in finding the best transportation options within their community and when traveling throughout Idaho.

That information also will be linked to the Operation Military Family’s VAPP, a smart phone application that connects veterans and their families to critical services, benefits and the right person, based on the user’s needs and location.
 
M2 Traffic Management is based in Coeur d’Alene and has previous experience with transit technology projects in Oregon and Idaho

In support of the project benefiting Idaho’s veterans, M2 Traffic Management will donate all project management, communication and training time, as well as training material creation, at a total estimated value of $15,000. The project is set to begin later this month and is expected to be completed next March.
 
“Many Idaho veterans live in rural and suburban communities with limited transportation services, while many of the services are concentrated in cities and urban areas,” U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo said.  “Idaho’s One-Click resource will improve the access to transportation options available to veterans in their communities and throughout the state.”
 
In addition, the Federal Transit Administration announced Monday (July 2) that CTAI one of 64 projects funded in 33 states for the 2012 Veterans Transportation and Community Living Initiative. The $50,000 grant was awarded to promote Idaho’s One-Call and One-Click resources that are being developed in partnership with ITD, Valley Regional Transit, Operation Military Family and M2 Traffic Management, LLC.
 
“We are excited to begin work on the ‘One-Click’ project,” said Heather Wheeler, CTAI Executive Director. “Often transportation is the missing link when it comes to connecting our veterans to the services they need upon the completion of their service to our country. We hope these resources will help to close that gap whenever possible,” she added.  
 
Receiving funds to educate veterans on where to find and how to use Idaho’s One-Call and One-Click resources will make the projects even more successful, allowing veterans and other Idahoans to find the best transportation options to meet their needs. In addition to involving current project partners, CTAI will partner with other veterans groups and human service agencies to develop an effective public outreach program.

Published 7-6-2012