The program application guidance document to the right contains information about grants for public transportation and commuter services administered by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). Information is provided for each of the various categories of grants that are awarded each year and specifically, who can apply for the grants and what expenses are eligible for each category. The forms that must be completed in order to submit a grant applications and instructions for submitting the form (s) are available in OLGA.

The Public Transportation Division of DRPT administers and manages state and federal grant programs, conducts performance evaluations, provides technical assistance and supports over 57 public transit systems, 49 human service providers and 18 regional commuter assistance programs throughout the state.

Timeline for Public Transportation and Commuter Services Grants

The following is a timeline generally followed by DRPT for state and federal public transportation and commuter services grants.

Early December
DRPT announces the opening of the annual applications period.

Around February 1
Applications are due for all state aid programs and FTA Section 5310 and 5311 programs.

March- April
DRPT evaluates applications and requests any additional information needed from applicants.

Late April
Applications are due for FTA Section 5303 funds.

April-May
DRPT completes evaluation of applications and develops the public transportation and commuter services portion of the draft Six-Year Improvement Plan.

June
Commonwealth Transportation Board adopts the Six-Year Improvement Plan. DRPT notifies applicants of approved grants and funding levels.

July 1
Fiscal Year begins – contracts executed and payments initiated.