Joplin gets $3.2 Million transit services grant

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has awarded the City of Joplin a $3.2 million grant to help cover transit service operating costs related to the coronavirus pandemic.

“Public transit has been vital for people to continue getting to work, grocery stores, and pharmacies during the coronavirus pandemic,” said Missouri US Senator Roy Blunt. “Communities across the state are having to focus limited resources toward the coronavirus response while facing lost revenue in several areas, including transit services. This grant will provide funding to help cover costs and keep employees and passengers safe. Ensuring public transit continues to be a safe, reliable option for people is an important part of the reopening process.”

According to the FTA, the funding announced today will go toward the purchase of personal protective equipment, operator salaries, fuel, and other needs. The grant is 100% federally-funded with no local match.

The Blunt-backed CARES Act included $25 billion in Transit Infrastructure Grants to help transit providers, including states and local governments across the nation, cover operating and capital expenses.