AMES, Iowa – Jan. 9, 2018 – Today, the Iowa Transportation Commission (Commission) approved more than $2.2 million in grants for four intercity transportation providers for the calendar year 2018 Intercity Bus Program. The Commission approved the funds for eight projects submitted by the following four entities.
- Burlington Trailways
- Mid-Iowa Development Association (MIDAS Region 5 public transit)
- City of Dubuque Public Transit (The Jule)
- Jefferson Lines
With the current trend in intercity bus transportation moving away from rural connectivity into more urban-to-urban service, these funds play a vital role in keeping rural Iowa connected to other areas within the state of Iowa, the Midwest, and the nation. This funding comes from the Federal Transit Administration’s 5311(f) program intended to support intercity bus providers that serve communities with fewer than 20,000 residents.
Several applications were received this year that highlight the important role of this funding. Jefferson Lines and Burlington Trailways received funds to each replace two over-the-road coaches. These new vehicles will replace older buses in their fleet therefore lowering overall maintenance costs. MIDAS and The Jule received funding for marketing their existing services.
Funding was also awarded to Jefferson Lines and Burlington Trailways as operational support to be used for preventative maintenance of their transportation fleet.
A listing of the individual projects and funding amounts is available on the Iowa Department of Transportation’s website www.iowadot.gov/transit.
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For more information, contact: Ryan Ward at 515-233-7877 or ryan.ward@iowadot.us
Source: iowa DMV