We are requesting to utilized federal FTA 5307 funds (see below funding breakdown) grant will be used to fund 5307 transit related capital expenditures in the manhattan urbanized area as well as use…

The Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency Board (FHATA) was awarded a $1,273,188 Federal Transit Formula Grant (CFDA 20.507) by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) on August 23, 2024. The grant funds will be used to support a variety of capital improvements and operational enhancements for FHATA's public transportation services in the Manhattan, Kansas urbanized area. Key project activities include purchasing maintenance vehicles, upgrading software and technology systems, replacing computer hardware, conducting transit planning studies, improving bus stop signage and amenities, and implementing safety and security updates at FHATA's headquarters. These investments are intended to extend the life of FHATA's vehicle fleet, improve rider experiences, enhance operational efficiency, and maintain critical public transportation services in the region.

Activities

The agency has a need to make improvements to headquarters including improved parking for the buses and safety and security improvements around the building including better lighting new surveillance system and electronic operating gate for security around the perimeter. In addition the agency has determined the need to make improvement to the bus rider amenities including additional bus shelters and amentities at existing bus stops to include shelter digital signage and other amenities such as benches. The agency is also evaluating ways to improve the look and comfort of the existing buses as they fleet is aging however the lack of local funds to purchase new vehicles as well as the supply shortage of vehicles the agency will not likely add to their fleet for at least another year to 2 years. Therefore the agency will be refreshing all of the vehicles wraps and making improvements to signage on the vehicles. The agency is looking to have more efficiencies in the maintenance department and will be purchasing a maintenance vehicle and equipment to allow the maintenance team to go out on road calls and get vehicles back out on route quicker by having improved access to necessary tools and equipment to make quick repairs. In addition due to supply shortage in vehicles the agency is placing an emphasis on ensuring the existing vehicles are maintained such that we get the maximum life out of the asset. The agency will plan to rehabilitate a portion of the agencys fleet to extend the life of the vehicle at least 2 more years.

Expected outcomes

Extended life of vehicles through rehabilitationimproved appearance of vehicles and bus stop locationsbuilding improvements at headquarters increasing office space for increased office staff and improved safety and security elements to keep staff and the public safe while at the building.continue to operate our public transportation system as efficiently and effectively as possible utilizing the resources we have available to US.

Intended beneficiaries

All transit riders of the system will receive benefits from the use of the funds through improved look and comfort on the buses and at the bus stop locations as we seek to improve not only comfort but ADA accessibility on and off the vehicles. Employees also receive the benefit of operating a transit vehicle less hassle of down time for vehicles needing repairs and less breakdowns out on route. Overall improving the appearance of the agencys buses and bus stops will improve the support from the public of having a transit system in the community.