Federal Grant Award Summary

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded Washington State Department of Transportation $39.3 million through the Formula Grants for Rural Areas and Tribal Transit Program (CFDA 20.509) on July 15, 2026, with a completion date of October 31, 2029. This formula grant supports the maintenance, development, and improvement of public transportation systems serving rural areas across Washington State. The award funds the operation and management of fixed-route and demand-response (dial-a-ride) transit services, with particular emphasis on serving vulnerable populations including elderly persons, individuals with special needs, and low-income residents. Core deliverables include sustaining current operating service levels, providing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-accessible commuter services, and ensuring continued access to essential destinations such as employment, medical appointments, and schools.

The WSDOT Accounting and Financial Services Division administers these funds as the state prime grantee, distributing resources to regional transit subrecipients including Island Transit, Grays Harbor Transportation Authority, Lewis County Transit, Pullman Transit, and Skagit Transit. The grant directly supports operational needs, vehicle maintenance, and infrastructure necessary to maintain adequate public transportation service levels in rural Washington communities. Expected outcomes center on enabling residents to access destinations critical to daily life, safety, and wellbeing through reliable, affordable transit options tailored to rural area demographics and transportation needs.