Purposeaward will fund the operating of fixed route and paratransit services and maintain the revenue vehicles and facilities used to provide the services to the greater wilmington NC region

Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority, operating as Wave Transit, received a $3.2M formula grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) under the Federal Transit Formula Grants program (CFDA 20.507), awarded on June 17, 2025, with a completion date of March 31, 2032. The grant funds the operation of fixed-route bus and paratransit services serving the greater Wilmington, North Carolina region, with specific activities directed toward preventive maintenance and operating costs for both service types.

The funded services directly benefit multiple population segments, including commuters, visitors, elderly and disabled communities, and workers requiring job access. Secondary benefits extend to non-riders through reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality across the region. Wave Transit reports no subrecipient activities under this award. The Urbanized Area Formula Funding Program (49 U.S.C. 5307) authorizes this assistance, which provides annual apportionments to transit agencies for capital and operating support in urbanized areas, with funds managed through the FTA's Transit Award Management System (TrAMS).

Activities

Provide for preventive maintenance and operating costs for fixed route bus and paratransit services in the greater wilmington NC area.

Expected outcomes

Benefits include reduced traffic congestion improved air quality improved efficiency providing access to transportation and providing employees with access to jobs.

Intended beneficiaries

Commuters visitors elderly and disabled communities will benefit from access to public transportation. Non-riders will benefit from reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality. Workers will have improved access to jobs.