Public transportation in Tennessee may receive funding through various sources, including federal, state, and local programs. These grants support the development, maintenance, and improvement of public transportation infrastructure and services. Here are some potential sources of public transportation grants in Tennessee:
- Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) – Public Transit Section:
- TDOT’s Public Transit Section administers federal and state grant programs to support public transportation projects and services in Tennessee. They may offer funding opportunities for transit agencies, local governments, and other eligible entities.
- Website: TDOT – Public Transit
- Federal Transit Administration (FTA) – Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program:
- FTA provides grants through the Buses and Bus Facilities Program to assist in the financing of buses and bus facilities capital projects, including the purchase of new transit vehicles and the construction or renovation of transit facilities.
- Website: FTA – Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities
- Federal Transit Administration (FTA) – Urbanized Area Formula Grants:
- FTA’s Urbanized Area Formula Grants program provides funding to urbanized areas, including cities and metropolitan areas in Tennessee, for public transportation planning, capital projects, and operating assistance.
- Website: FTA – Urbanized Area Formula Grants
- Federal Transit Administration (FTA) – Rural Area Formula Grants:
- FTA’s Rural Area Formula Grants program supports public transportation in rural areas, providing funding for capital projects and operating assistance.
- Website: FTA – Rural Area Formula Grants
- Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee – Transportation Grants:
- The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee may offer grants to nonprofit organizations and initiatives, including those related to transportation. While not specific to public transit, they may support projects that enhance community mobility.
- Website: Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
- Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System (TCRS) – Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP):
- TCRS administers the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), which provides federal funding for transportation projects that enhance non-motorized transportation alternatives, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
- Website: TCRS – Transportation Alternatives Program
When pursuing public transportation grants in Tennessee, it’s crucial to monitor announcements from federal, state, and local transportation agencies. Additionally, consider collaborating with regional planning organizations, transit agencies, and local governments to identify and apply for available funding opportunities that align with your transit project goals.