Funding is to support west broad street BRT pre-construction activities performed after the 2023 reconnecting communities pilot program projects were announced on 3/14/2024

This $23,618,946 Formula Grant award from the Federal Transit Administration's Federal Transit Formula Grants program (CFDA 20.507) will support pre-construction activities for the West Broad Street Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in Columbus, Ohio. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) will use the funding for final design, NEPA environmental review, and other planning activities to implement the 9.3-mile BRT service on the West Broad Street corridor. The project aims to improve connectivity, spur equitable development, and enhance access to housing, goods, services, and employment for historically disadvantaged communities in the corridor. The award period runs from January 16, 2025 to March 30, 2028.

Activities

Cota will implement a BRT service on the 9.3 mile west broad street corridor between downtown columbus and prairie township. Project development activities include planning nepa and engineering design of the west broad street BRT. The PD activities will also include public engagement and meetings with external and internal stakeholders.

Expected outcomes

The west broad street BRT will improve the connectivity within and beyond the corridor; support and catalyze new types of equitable development and redevelopment; and improve access and opportunities for housing goods and services and employment for historically disadvantaged communities in and around the corridors.

Intended beneficiaries

The west broad street BRT would serve the historically disadvantaged communities in and around the west broad street corridor.