Project proposals are now being accepted for funding consideration through the Job Access and Reverse Commute Program (JARC, Section 5316), and the New Freedom Program (NF, Section 5317). These programs are funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for transit related services that assist targeted population groups. This call for projects extends to any transit provider in the small urban and rural areas of the State. Projects in areas with a population of 200,000 or more are ineligible for these funds administered by ADSS. (download full document)
Eligible applicants include private nonprofit organizations; state and local governmental agencies; & operators of public transportation services, including private operators of public transportation services.
The JARC Program is designed to improve access to transportation services to jobs and job related activities for welfare recipients and eligible low-income individuals; and to address reverse commute needs.
The New Freedom Program seeks to reduce barriers to transportation services and expand the transportation mobility options available to people with disabilities beyond those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
The JARC Program has $1,958,086 for the small urban areas and $1,823,956 for the rural areas. The NF Program has $1,046,438 for the small urban areas and $1,345,598 for the rural areas. Applications requesting operating funds require a 50% local match and the capital program requires a 20% local match. Construction projects, vehicles, & vehicle related equipment will not be considered for funding.
The selection process will be based on the following selection criteria: statement of need and organizational capacity; project budget and cost effectiveness; coordination and program outreach; implementation plan; and customer service and accessibility. Projects funded through these programs must be derived from a locally developed coordinated transportation plan.
The application packages provide specific eligibility requirements, match requirements, and eligible activities. The application and state management plan can be found at www.unitedweridealabama.com/info.cfm .
Applications must be submitted to the appropriate Regional Council based upon the location of the proposed project(s) by 5:00 p.m. on March 16, 2012. The Regional Councils will forward all received applications to ADSS by 5:00 p.m. on March 23, 2012. Applications received after the deadlines will not be considered for processing.
For questions or comments contact: Alabama Department of Senior Services, Transportation Dept., 770 Washington Avenue, RSA Plaza Suite 570, Montgomery, AL 36130, (334) 353-8548 or at Sharon.Coats@adss.alabama.gov
ADSS does not discriminate against any individual because of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, ancestry or disability.
