AMES, Iowa – Dec. 10, 2013 – Today, the Iowa Transportation Commission (Commission) approved more than $2.7 million in grants for four intercity transit providers under the calendar year 2014 Intercity Bus Program. The Commission approved the funds for 12 projects submitted by the following four entities.
- City of Dubuque Public Transit (The Jule)
- Jefferson Lines
- City of Fort Dodge Public Transit (DART)
- Burlington Trailways
With the current trend in intercity bus transportation moving away from rural connectivity into more urban-to-urban service, these funds play a vital role in keeping rural Iowa connected to other areas within the state of Iowa, the Midwest, and the nation. This funding comes from the Federal Transit Administration’s 5311(f) program intended to support intercity bus providers that serve communities with less than 20,000 residents.
Several applications were received this year that highlight the important role of this funding. Jefferson Lines received funds to retrofit two active buses. The retrofits replace engines, transmissions, seating, and adds amenities, such as wireless internet; all at a cost much less than that of one new vehicle. Burlington Trailways received funding to construct a new Des Moines depot to replace the vacated Keo Way facility that is being currently being sold.
Funding was also awarded to the city of Dubuque public transit system, The Jule, for construction of the intercity bus portion of the new intermodal facility located in the historic Millwork District of Dubuque; and the city of Fort Dodge public transit system received funding for marketing of their feeder service from Fort Dodge that meets the Jefferson Lines bus along Interstate 35.
