The purpose of this grant award is to create a contactless payment system for transit riders including older adults people with disabilities and people of low income in rural western south dakota

West River Transit Authority, Inc. (operating as Prairie Hills Transit) received a $336,600 Project Grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) under the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities program (CFDA 20.513) to develop and implement a contactless payment system for rural transit riders in western South Dakota. The award, obligated on July 11, 2025, with a completion deadline of December 31, 2026, will support the creation of an integrated payment infrastructure specifically designed to improve accessibility for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and low-income populations in rural areas.

The grant funds the development of three primary components: a contactless payment system enabling touchless fare collection, a backend accounting system to process and manage payment transactions, and a redesigned website incorporating the new payment capability. These products will directly improve access and the overall ridership experience for rural transit riders across western South Dakota, addressing transportation barriers in areas where traditional payment methods may pose accessibility challenges for vulnerable populations.

Activities

Creation of a contactless payment system a backend accounting system and a redesigned website that incorporates the new payment capability.

Expected outcomes

Improved access and ridership experience for rural transit riders.

Intended beneficiaries

Rural transit riders in rural western south dakota including older adults people with disabilities and people of low income.