This fall, the Alabama Department of Transportation will provide almost 100 new transit vehicles to rural agencies across Alabama. These vehicles are important to how local governments serve the public transportation needs of their rural residents.
Getting to a doctor appointment, the grocery store or even to work can be a challenge for many residents of Alabama’s rural communities. ALDOT administers Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds to eligible rural transit providers across the state so that they can offer transportation services.
“It has been difficult to find new vehicles to purchase since the slowdown that happened in auto manufacturing during the COVID pandemic,” said Brad Lindsey, Local Transportation bureau chief with ALDOT. “The rural agencies (counties and local governments) that use federal funds to offer rural public transportation are required to replace their transit vehicles after the vehicle reaches a certain mileage or age. We are pleased that ALDOT has now secured the vehicles requested by the rural agencies. These vehicles allow the agencies to maintain a high level of service and safety for their riders.”
For many citizens of Alabama, rural transit service is not just a means of transportation but a way of staying independent and participating in community life.
How Does Rural Transit Work?
Counties and local governments operate transportation services for their residents. ALDOT processes grant applications from those local organizations applying for federal funding used for administration, operations and to acquire transit vehicles. “Our goal is to facilitate the mobility that enhances quality of life for the citizens of Alabama,” said Lindsey.
Finding a ride with a local transit service is easy. Simply visit the ALTRANS website at ALTRANS.org and click “schedule a ride.” Next, select your county of origin and its corresponding transportation provider contact information will be displayed. Calling and scheduling rides at least 24 hours in advance is recommended.
ALDOT administers the Alabama Rural Transit Assistance Program, which is dedicated to creating public and rural transit solutions in Alabama through technical assistance, partner collaboration, free training, and other products. There are 29 rural transit agencies in Alabama currently taking part in the program.
