Funding Available to Enhance Mobility of Older Adults and Individuals with Disabilities - MORPC

Transportation

August 16, 2021

Proposals due September 20, 2021 – One mandatory virtual workshop scheduled

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) announces the availability of Section 5310 Program funding to enhance the mobility of older adults and individuals with disabilities. The deadline for requests is September 20, 2021.

The Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program will provide approximately $1.4 million in federal funding to improve mobility for seniors and people with disabilities. This program provides grant funds for capital expenses for vehicles and related equipment used to transport older adults and people with disabilities and activities related to mobility management. Funds may also be used for operating projects that specifically serve older adults and people with disabilities, travel training to instruct persons with disabilities on using fixed-route bus services, and capital projects to remove barriers at bus stops for persons with disabilities.

“This round of funding is unique because CARES Act funding allowed for 100% federal funding, meaning no local funding is required for this round. We are hoping for innovative and out-of-the-box projects this year to advance mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities.”

John Gardocki, MORPC Principal Transit Planner

The program is administered by MORPC for the Columbus, Ohio Urbanized Area. Eligible recipients include state or local government authorities, private nonprofit organizations, or public or private operators of public transportation services.

“Through insight2050, we learned that Central Ohio’s population is expected to expand to 3 million people by the year 2050 and that much of that growth will occur in the age group of those 65 and older. MORPC is proud to invest federal dollars into projects that improve accessibility for seniors and individuals with disabilities in Central Ohio."

Thea Ewing, MORPC Director of Transportation & Infrastructure Development

Funds are available each federal fiscal year and are distributed following a MORPC review and approval process. The Section 5310 mandatory information workshop will be held virtually:

August 24, 2021 (11:00AM)
Virtual Teams Meeting

To RSVP for the information session, contact John Gardocki or call 614.233.4146. For more information, click here.