This grant will be used for the purchase of approximately one (1) paratransit less than 35-FT replacement vehicles and associated equipment to improve communication security and passenger amenities…

The Federal Transit Administration awarded Ben Franklin Transit $384,614 on August 6, 2026, under the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities program (CFDA 20.513) to purchase approximately one paratransit vehicle under 35 feet in length and associated equipment including radios, cameras, and vehicle locators to improve communication security and passenger amenities.

Ben Franklin Transit, a local government-owned transit authority serving the Benton-Franklin Public Transportation Benefit Area in southeastern Washington, will deploy the replacement vehicle to provide purchased paratransit services for elderly persons and individuals with disabilities who cannot access Ben Franklin Transit's fixed-route service. The vehicle will serve residents in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, West Richland, Benton City, Prosser, and unincorporated areas of Benton and Franklin counties.

The award obligates $384,614 with a period of performance extending through September 30, 2032. Place of performance is Washington. The replacement bus is expected to improve system reliability for the Benton-Franklin Public Transportation Benefit Area. No sub-recipients are identified in this award.

Activities

Purchase of approximately one (1) paratransit less than 35-FT replacement buses and associated equipment.

Expected outcomes

These replacement bus will improve system reliability to the benton franklin public transportation benefit area.

Intended beneficiaries

Members of the public located in the cities of kennewick pasco richland west richland benton city prosser and certain unincorporated areas of benton and franklin counties.