Initiative provides grants to improve mobility for seniors and those with disabilities
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has announced the availability of Section 5310 Program funding to enhance the mobility of older adults and individuals with disabilities. The deadline for project applications is Friday, October 24, at 5 p.m.
The Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program will provide approximately $1.7 million in federal funding to improve mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This program provides grant funds for capital expenses for vehicles and related equipment used to transport individuals to and from activities related to mobility management. Funds may also be used for operating projects that specifically serve older adults and individuals with disabilities, travel training to instruct individuals with disabilities on using fixed-route bus services, and capital projects to remove barriers at bus stops for individuals with disabilities.
The funding helps to fill critical gaps in transportation by ensuring residents can access jobs, medical care, education, and community resources. By enhancing mobility options, the program strengthens independence and improves the quality of life.
“MORPC is proud to invest federal dollars into projects that improve accessibility for seniors and individuals with disabilities in Central Ohio.”
The program is administered by MORPC for the Columbus, Ohio Urbanized Area. Eligible recipients include state or local government authorities, private non-profit organizations, or public or private operators of public transportation services.
“The 5310 funding program enhances the mobility of our most vulnerable population so that they can attend medical appointments and/or access better employment opportunities. The funds can be used to buy buses, vans, wheelchair lifts, ramps, making improvements to signage, or way-finding technology to assist older adults or persons with disabilities.”
Funds are available each federal fiscal year and are distributed following a MORPC review and approval process. The application opens on Wednesday, September 24, and closes on Friday, October 24. The Section 5310 mandatory information workshop will be held virtually on Wednesday, September 24, from 12 – 1 p.m. To join the meeting online, click on the link below and enter the information provided:
Meeting ID: 294 671 120 603 8 – Passcode: Xd2Ny23P
To RSVP for the Section 5310 Workshop, contact Hannah Ruscin at hruscin@morpc.org or call 614.233.4194. For more information on Section 5310 Program funding, visit our website at Enhanced Mobility – MORPC.org.
