|
Federal grant
to aid rural transit and expand broadband access
ODOT will use $6.8 million grant to fund Transit Tech Ohio project
COLUMBUS (Friday, November 6, 2015) – A new Ohio Department of
Transportation project, funded in large part by a federal grant, will
help Ohio’s 34 rural transit systems operate more efficiently and
expand broadband access in Ohio.
The Transit Tech Ohio project has been awarded a $6.8 million
Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant.
The money will be used to help rural transit agencies purchase hardware
and software that allows them to schedule and dispatch transit vehicles.
“The lack of these upgrades is leading to inefficiencies –
inefficiencies that cost time and money and ultimately underserve the
people who rely on the vital services of rural transit,” said ODOT
Assistant Director Jim Barna.
Vehicles will also be equipped with GPS, Automatic Vehicle Location
(AVL) systems, tablets, and mobile data terminals. All of the upgrades
will promote the ability for multiple agencies to share services.
“The expected funds from this grant will allow Wilmington Transit to
put in place a call and dispatch system that will greatly improve
efficiency and help shorten wait times which has been our main obstacle
to providing the superior service we strive for,” said Wilmington
Department of Public Transportation Director Phillip Floyd.
Transit Tech Ohio will also expand access to broadband by funding
public-private partnerships that optimize transit operations through
equipment acquisitions, the installation of technology on existing
towers and structures owned by the state, and new tower construction
when necessary.
“Rural communities continually struggle to obtain the same level of
access to resources that are available to urban and suburban
counterparts. We are excited about all parties helping to expand
broadband access, adoption, and use throughout Ohio,” said Lindsay
Shanahan, executive director of Connect Ohio.
Increasing broadband access will improve the effectiveness of existing
business and educational institutions, including public schools and
small colleges. It will also enhance the quality of life for residents
and businesses of rural Ohio by delivering information and access to
online resources.
The project is expected to take about 38 months to complete.
|
|
|
|
